Josh Donaldson will be the starting third baseman for the New York Yankees in 2023, general manager Brian Cashman said Tuesday, according to Sports Illustrated's Pat Ragazzo.
Cashman praised the 36-year-old's defense and said the former MVP is much more capable on offense than he showed in his first campaign for the Bronx Bombers.
The GM added that the Yankees believe Donaldson still has a lot left in the tank.
Donaldson's first season with the Yankees did not go well after they acquired him from the Minnesota Twins in a five-player deal in March.
The veteran infielder finished fourth among MLB third basemen in defensive runs saved, but he only hit .222/.308/.374 with 15 home runs, 28 doubles, and 62 RBIs in 132 games. He's making $21 million next season, and his contract includes a team option and an $8-million buyout for 2024.
The Yankees faithful frequently booed Donaldson for incidents such as getting thrown out on the basepaths after thinking he hit a homer during Game 1 of the American League Division Series.
He was also widely criticized and ultimately suspended for directing remarks about Jackie Robinson toward Chicago White Sox shortstop Tim Anderson in May. Donaldson later expressed disappointment in his Yankees teammates for not having his back following the incident.
