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MLB Free Agency: Six bold predictions for baseball’s top free agents

By Lucas Friedman

WASHINGTON, DC - OCTOBER 29: Washington Nationals third baseman Anthony Rendon (6) rounds the bases after a home run in the seventh inning during Game 6 of the World Series between the Washington Nationals and the Houston Astros at Nationals Park on Tuesday, October 29, 2019. (Photo by Toni L. Sandys/The Washington Post via Getty Images)
WASHINGTON, DC - OCTOBER 29: Washington Nationals third baseman Anthony Rendon (6) rounds the bases after a home run in the seventh inning during Game 6 of the World Series between the Washington Nationals and the Houston Astros at Nationals Park on Tuesday, October 29, 2019. (Photo by Toni L. Sandys/The Washington Post via Getty Images) /
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(Photo by David J. Griffin/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)
(Photo by David J. Griffin/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images) /

2. Dodgers add Josh Donaldson to their already stacked infield

The Los Angeles Dodgers already have one of the most formidable infields in the majors. Their infield features all-stars Justin Turner, Corey Seager, and Max Muncy. However, this apparently won’t stop them from adding another power-hitting infielder. Jorge Castillo of the Los Angeles Times reported that the Dodgers are in pursuit of former MVP third baseman Josh Donaldson.

Donaldson was one of the game’s best sluggers before having an injury-ridden season in 2018. However, he had a resurgent year in 2019 with the Braves. He demonstrated that he is still one of the premium sluggers in the league, swatting 37 home runs, 94 RBIs, with a .900 OPS. He also showed he got over his defensive struggles in 2018, posting an NL-best 15 DRS among third baseman.

So, at age 33, Donaldson is looking for a lucrative contract, short term contract. The Dodgers showed a willingness to shell out high AAV contracts, and Donaldson will definitely require that, as Rendon’s big payday will undoubtedly benefit him.

The Dodgers will certainly make a run at Rendon as well, but the Dodgers might elect to pursue a shorter term contract with Donaldson at that high of a price. He is a perfect fit for a perennial contender like the Dodgers who look to add to an already powerful lineup. If they do sign him, Turner would likely move to first or second to create quite possibly the best infield in the entire league.

Donaldson is also being pursued aggressively by the Texas Rangers, Atlanta Braves, Washington Nationals, and others. But don’t be surprised if you see Josh Donaldson in Dodger blue in 2020.

Contract Prediction: three years/$81 million

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