Fansided

Top 25 MLB free agents for 2019

By Joshua Sadlock

NEW YORK, NEW YORK - OCTOBER 15: Gerrit Cole #45 of the Houston Astros celebrates retiring the side during the sixth inning against the New York Yankees in game three of the American League Championship Series at Yankee Stadium on October 15, 2019 in New York City. (Photo by Mike Stobe/Getty Images)
NEW YORK, NEW YORK - OCTOBER 15: Gerrit Cole #45 of the Houston Astros celebrates retiring the side during the sixth inning against the New York Yankees in game three of the American League Championship Series at Yankee Stadium on October 15, 2019 in New York City. (Photo by Mike Stobe/Getty Images) /
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WASHINGTON, DC – SEPTEMBER 13: Josh Donaldson #20 of the Atlanta Braves follows the play against the Washington Nationals during the ninth inning at Nationals Park on September 13, 2019 in Washington, DC. (Photo by Scott Taetsch/Getty Images)
WASHINGTON, DC – SEPTEMBER 13: Josh Donaldson #20 of the Atlanta Braves follows the play against the Washington Nationals during the ninth inning at Nationals Park on September 13, 2019 in Washington, DC. (Photo by Scott Taetsch/Getty Images) /

7. Josh Donaldson

Former American League MVP Josh Donaldson had a lot to prove this year after signing a one-year deal with the Braves. The third baseman was coming off two injury-plagued seasons where he was limited to 165 games. Despite the injuries, Donaldson still posted a .900 OPS in 2017 and 2018, but the 33-year-old needed to show he could still do it for a full year.

Donaldson more than proved he could still deliver at an elite level in 2019. He hit .259/.379/.521 with 37 home runs and 94 RBI. Donaldson also drew 100 walks for the second time in his nine-year career and led the Braves in WAR. He also remains one of the best defenders in baseball at the hot corner.

A return to the Braves for the rest of his career would make a lot of sense for the Alabama native. Donaldson instantly endeared himself to Atlanta fans with his fiery brand of play and his leadership and impact were obvious on a young team. There is just a presence and a swagger that the three-time All-Star brings to a lineup.

Missing most of 2018 with injuries forced Donaldson to accept a one-year deal with the Braves for $23 million. Having proved his ability to get through a full season healthy, Donaldson should be able to find at least a three-year deal with a options and incentives for more. He was a late bloomer and did not stick in the big leagues until the age of 26, so this is his final chance to cash in. Expect the Braves to get a deal done quickly.

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