Toronto Blue Jays Nervously Await Result of Josh Donaldson’s MRI
By Paul Taylor
With the Toronto Blue Jays on a run of just four wins in 14 games, could the result of Josh Donaldson’s MRI determine the fate of their postseason hopes?
They say timing is everything. Certainly, the Toronto Blue Jays couldn’t have picked a more inopportune time to play their worst baseball of the season.
As if the recent slump wasn’t bad enough, now there’s some real concern over the health of Josh Donaldson. What started out as an apparent rest day on Monday, has turned into something potentially more serious.
Donaldson recently aggravated his hip, but general manager Ross Atkins admitted it has not responded “significantly” to treatment. As such, the decision was made on Wednesday for the third baseman to undergo an MRI.
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The result of the MRI is expected sometime on Thursday, but at this stage, there is some genuine concern about how serious the hip issue is. Regardless, the reigning AL MVP is frustrated about his inability to contribute.
Speaking to Sportsnet‘s Ben Nicholson-Smith and the rest of the media after Wednesday’s 8-1 loss to the Tampa Bay Rays, Donaldson said: “It’s not something where I could go out there and perform in a manner that would help the team.”
Atkins also acknowledged Donaldson’s frustrations: “He’s more miserable than any player right now that exists that we’re in this hunt and he can’t contribute. There’s no doubt about that.”
At least this could explain why the 30-year old has been struggling at the plate recently (although Atkins claims there is no connection whatsoever). This includes going seven consecutive games without a hit, for the first time in his professional career.
Donaldson’s recent blip has put a damper on what has been another outstanding season for him. He currently leads the Blue Jays in hits and runs, and is second in home runs and RBIs.
Obviously, losing the 2007 first round draft pick for any stretch of time would be a blow for the team. Atkins said: “He’s a special player. He’s integral to this team. You can’t prepare to lose a player of that calibre.
“However…It takes a team to win. We do have depth in those areas and feel good about our options, but this guy’s the reigning MVP.”
From Donaldson’s point of view, he has faith in his teammates, no matter what: “We still control our own destiny.
“We believe in each other. We believe we’re going to right the ship.” The result of Donaldson’s MRI will help determine how much the Blue Jays can steady that ship is.
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Pending the result of Donaldson’s MRI, what impact do you think his potential loss could have on the season? Further, how concerned are you about the Blue Jays postseason hopes in general? Let us know in the comments section below.