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MLB trade rumors: 5 third baseman Red Sox should target

By Brad Berreman

May 20, 2017; Seattle, WA, USA; Chicago White Sox designated hitter Todd Frazier (21) hits a two RBI single against the Seattle Mariners during the seventh inning at Safeco Field. Mandatory Credit: Joe Nicholson-USA TODAY Sports
May 20, 2017; Seattle, WA, USA; Chicago White Sox designated hitter Todd Frazier (21) hits a two RBI single against the Seattle Mariners during the seventh inning at Safeco Field. Mandatory Credit: Joe Nicholson-USA TODAY Sports /
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Mandatory Credit: John E. Sokolowski-USA TODAY Sports
Mandatory Credit: John E. Sokolowski-USA TODAY Sports /

2. Josh Donaldson, Toronto Blue Jays

After making back-to-back postseason appearances, the Blue Jays started poorly this year and haven’t quite recovered. Heading into Monday’s slate of games, Toronto is eight games out and in last place in the AL East with a 19-26 record.

One of the biggest factors in Toronto’s struggles this year is the ongoing absence of third baseman Josh Donaldson. He has been out since April 13 with a calf injury, and the 2015 American League MVP had been a rare bright spot before being sidelined (.310 average, 1.015 OPS over 29 at-bats).

It’s worth wondering if the Blue Jays’ window has already closed, at least as currently constructed. Jose Bautista, Troy Tulowitzki and Donaldson are all north of 30 years old, with Bautista and Donaldson standing out as possible trade chips. Donaldson is in the final year of his contract, while Bautista has options for 2018 and 2019 in the deal he signed during the offseason.

Donaldson is finally scheduled to start a rehab assignment this week, so his return is looming. If he picks up where he left off in mid-April, contending teams are sure to take a close look at making a deal. The Red Sox should absolutely be making a call to Toronto soon, if only to see what it will take to get Donaldson.

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