Which MLB teams have the best chance to sign Josh Donaldson?

1. Atlanta Braves

Until all of the offers are sorted out, the Braves have to be considered the favorites to bring Donaldson back to Atlanta.

The Braves have already had an aggressive offseason, signing closer Will Smith, reliever Chris Martin, outfielder Nick Markakis and catcher Travis d’Arnaud and they’re not done yet. Atlanta has been linked to Donaldson, starter Madison Bumgarner and outfielder Marcell Ozuna. Because the team’s young core is still so young and cheap, it’s not out of the question that they could sign two more high-end free agents.

Donaldson was an excellent fit in the Atlanta clubhouse and appeared comfortable stepping into the role of fiery, veteran leader on a young team. With over $50 million to go before they hit the luxury tax, the Braves can afford to sign almost anyone they want this winter. They haven’t been linked to Anthony Rendon, Stephen Strasburg or Gerrit Cole, seemingly preferring to focus on quantity of top free agents instead of going after one of the top, top names.

There’s not going to be a hometown discount of sorts for the Braves with Donaldson, as he only spent one year with them. He is, however, an Alabama native, so there’s likely an attraction to staying close to home. Atlanta offers a great park to hit in, an exciting lineup with plenty of protection and an excellent shot at a World Series.

Nearly every team that made the playoffs last year could find a place in its lineup for Donaldson, so he will have plenty of offers to mull over. A reunion with the Braves still feels like the most likely ending to the All-Star’s last chance at free agency. His leadership, bat and glove are all integral to the Braves taking the next step and getting past the first round of the playoffs. Expect them to find more than enough money to re-sign him.