Josh Donaldson Calls it Quits: Reflecting on the Retirement of a Three-Time MLB All-Star

Josh Donaldson, a three-time MLB All-Star and the 2015 AL MVP, has officially announced his retirement from baseball. The seasoned veteran, who spent 13 seasons in the MLB, revealed his decision during an interview on “The Mayor’s Office with Sean Casey” podcast.

Reflecting on his journey, Donaldson shared, “There was a moment towards the end of the season where I felt content with where I was at, and I contemplated giving it one more shot. However, being at home with my family, and celebrating my marriage, today marks a bittersweet but ultimately joyous occasion for me. I am bidding farewell to the game that has been the centerpiece of my entire life.”

Expressing mixed emotions, he continued, “It’s saddening to realize that I won’t be stepping onto the field to play the sport I love anymore. Yet, it’s also a time of immense happiness as I embrace the next chapter of life surrounded by my loved ones.”

Donaldson, aged 38, wrapped up his MLB tenure with the Milwaukee Brewers in a part-time capacity last season, following his release from the New York Yankees. His professional journey commenced in 2010 with the Oakland A’s, subsequently leading him to the Blue Jays, Cleveland, Atlanta Braves, Minnesota Twins, and Yankees, before concluding with the Brewers.

Throughout his career, Donaldson encountered controversy at various junctures. Reports surfaced of discord with teammates during his stint in Minnesota. Additionally, in 2022, MLB penalized and suspended him after he acknowledged making a derogatory remark towards Chicago White Sox shortstop Tim Anderson, leading to an altercation prompting both teams to clear the benches.

Entering the offseason as a free agent, Donaldson expressed openness to rejoining the Blue Jays in November. However, with spring training underway and Opening Day looming, he ultimately opted to hang up his cleats.

With a career batting line of .261/.358/.489, Donaldson amassed 279 home runs, 816 RBI, and 40 stolen bases across 1,383 games. His most prolific performances were notably with the A’s and Blue Jays, earning him three All-Star selections. Notably, during his MVP campaign in 2015 with the Blue Jays, he boasted a stellar slash line of .297/.371/.568, along with 41 home runs and league-leading tallies in runs scored (122) and RBI (123).