Toronto Blue Jays: Time to give up on Josh Donaldson

Even with time fast running out, the Toronto Blue Jays still haven’t given up hope of finding a trade partner for three-time All-Star Josh Donaldson.

At some point, you have to know when to let go in a situation. The Toronto Blue Jays have reached this stage with Josh Donaldson, but they keep hanging on, as if they are in denial.

Prior to the 2018 season, the Blue Jays hedged their bets by signing Donaldson to a one-year deal, worth a club record $23 million. On the one hand, they were hoping he could help fuel a challenge to return to the postseason.

On the other hand, the Blue Jays didn’t want to tie themselves to the 2015 AL MVP long-term, when considering his age. They also put themselves into a position where they could still trade him and get something of value in return.

Unfortunately for the Blue Jays, despite hedging their bets, they find themselves in the worst possible scenario with Donaldson. The club did not contend — at least realistically — but they haven’t been able to trade him either, due to ongoing injury issues which have limited him to 36 appearances in 2018.

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And yet, despite the passing of the non-waiver trade deadline and with the end of August now looming, the Blue Jays still haven’t given up hope of moving the 32-year-old. At least according to MLB Network Insider, Jon Heyman.

Heyman reported on Satuday, that the Blue Jays are hoping to start Donaldson’s rehab this week. The plan is to put him on trade waivers when he’s ready to play in the majors, and find a trade partner.

While the plan is entirely understandable, at this point the club is grasping at straws. As of Monday, Sept. 1 is now only 12 days away.

Donaldson has been sidelined since late May, with an ongoing left calf injury. He has already been out longer than anticipated and at this stage, there is no reason to believe he will be ready in time.

There are just too many obstacles to overcome, apart from going through rehab and then returning to the Majors. The three-time All-Star then also has to show he is fit enough and playing to form, to entice another team into becoming a trade partner.

And even if that were to transpire, the Blue Jays can’t expect much from any potential suitor. Why would a club give up anything of value, for a player who will become a free agent at the conclusion of this season?

Ultimately, in a season where everything could go wrong for the Blue Jays, Donaldson embodies this narrative perfectly. The club has long given up on making the postseason and should now adopt a similar mindset in terms of trading their third baseman.

What would you do in the Toronto Blue Jays’ position, if they are unable to move Donaldson? Would you make him a qualifying offer after the season, or just let him become a free agent? Share your thoughts in the comments section.