TRIBE TRADE FOR THIRD BASEMAN DONALDSON!
The Cleveland Indians acquired third baseman Josh Donaldson and cash from the Toronto Blue Jays for a player to be named later.
What does it give the Cleveland Guardians
For Cleveland, adding Donaldson gives them a little better balance in their lineup. Once healthy, he may play every day at third base. Jose Ramirez could move back to second base from the hot corner, while second baseman Jason Kipnis may wind up in center field. With Donaldson, the Indians can contend for a World Series title. Toronto is also expected to a reported $2.7 million of what is left on Donaldson's contract for 2018.
What does it give the Toronto Blue Jays
Toronto will probably receive a quality prospect from Cleveland in exchange for the 2015 American League MVP, although the player's identity is not yet known. Toronto will move forward with the likes of Brandon Drury, Yangervis Solarte and even Russell Martin at third base for the rest of 2018. However, it is widely expected that Vladimir Guerrero Jr., arguably the top prospect in all of baseball right now, will man third base for the Blue Jays in '19.
Fantasy impact
If Donaldson can get healthy in September, he could be a huge fantasy boost to any roster, in any league. However, his injury history suggests he should not be counted on to remain healthy for the entire month. The big loser here could be Cleveland center-fielder Greg Allen, who is likely to become a backup if Kipnis shifts back to the outfield to accommodate Donaldson.
