Josh Donaldson to make spring debut as DH in upcoming games
Toronto Blue Jays fans woke up to some welcome good news about their star third baseman Monday, as Josh Donaldson appears set to make his spring training debut.
According to a report from John Lott of The Athletic, Blue Jays manager John Gibbons has indicated that Donaldson will see his first game action of 2017 this week, as designated hitter either for the Jays or for a minor-league affiliate.
Gibbons: Donaldson will get ABs as DH in either major or minor league games in next few days, Travis in minor league games.
— John Lott (@JohnCLott1) March 13, 2017
Donaldson has been sidelined with a right calf injury for just under a month, after straining it while running just before Toronto’s first team workout.
With the start of the regular season still three weeks away, the Blue Jays have no intention of rushing the former AL MVP into the lineup. He’s likely to see his first Grapefruit League at-bats this week from the DH spot, still not quite healthy enough to risk playing third base.
The Jays open a two-game series against the Boston Red Sox on Monday, followed by games against the New York Yankees, Philadelphia Phillies, and Tampa Bay Rays to close out the week.
In 2016, Donaldson was one of the key contributors to the Blue Jays team that made their second straight ALCS appearance. His splits of .284/.404/.549 were among the top offensive players in the American League, and his 37 home runs led all Toronto hitters.
Donaldson’s fellow Blue Jay, Devon Travis, pegged to start at second base this year, has also been out of the spring lineup with a knee injury. Gibbons has suggested he’ll see some playing time in a few minor league games this week before suiting up for the major club.
Next: Jason Kipnis to miss Opening Day
Neither player is confirmed to be in the lineup for Opening Day, but the Blue Jays are hopeful for both.