As Atlanta Braves fans wait for Josh Donaldson to sign, where he lands could play a big part in deciding who wins the NL East in 2020.
It looks like the market for Josh Donaldson is coming down to the Atlanta Braves and Washington Nationals.
There are several reports out there now that the Nationals are heavily involved in discussions with Donaldson. Bob Nightengale even mentions that they could give him that fourth year he’s seeking.
Jon Heyman mentions the Dodgers, Twins, and Rangers as others in pursuit of the third baseman.
Nats seem focused on Josh Donaldson right now. They love Kris Bryant but the belief is the Cubs want Victor Robles, likely a no go. Could go to 4th year. Also interested in JD: Braves, dodgers, twins, rangers
— Jon Heyman (@JonHeyman) December 14, 2019
But it’s starting to feel like this could come down to the top two teams in the NL East, and where Donaldson lands could decide who takes the division in 2020.
We all know how important Donaldson was in the Braves’ lineup last year. And to not have that any more would completely change the dynamic of the offense.
On the flip side, the Nationals lost Anthony Rendon to the Los Angeles Angels leaving a huge hole in their lineup without him.
Both teams need Donaldson’s bat in their lineup to try and get back to the level of play they experienced a season ago.
Washington certainly has the money to go all-in on Donaldson if they really want him. While I don’t think Atlanta will have that same luxury.
My personal belief is that the Braves won’t go beyond four years and $100 million, and even that might be pushing it.
But I also get the feeling that Donaldson really wants to come back to the Braves and may be willing to take a little less to come back. Maybe that’s wishful thinking, but if Atlanta is going to get him back that may be how it happens.
The Nationals could come out and offer JD $30 million a year, and that wouldn’t be all that shocking with the contracts we’ve seen this offseason.
If that happens I don’t think there is any way the Braves can compete with that offer.
But at the same time, I think it’s more crucial for the Nats to get Donaldson than the Braves.
Washington doesn’t have the prospect capital to go out and trade for someone like Kris Bryant or Nolan Arenado.
I’m not saying the Braves would do that, but they certainly have the ability to get that type of deal done if they miss out on Donaldson.
We’ll see what happens over the next week as I expect Donaldson to make a decision before Christmas. Whatever his decision is, there is no doubt it will play a big role in deciding the NL East.