Yankees Make Surprise Move; Cut Former Most Valuable Player After Tumultuous Stint

New York released a former MVP on Tuesday after a rough stretch

Gregory Fisher-USA TODAY Sports

The New York Yankees made a move Tuesday afternoon.

New York reportedly released former American League Most Valuable Player Josh Donaldson after a tumultuous stint with the club, according to ESPN's Jeff Passan.

"The New York Yankees have released third baseman Josh Donaldson,"

Donaldson had a rough stretch in New York, to say the least. The Yankees acquired the third baseman from the Minnesota Twins in 2022 in a deal involving former Yankees catcher Gary Sánchez. The three-time All-Star appeared in 165 total games with the Yankees over the two seasons and slashed .207/.293/.385 to go along with 25 home runs and 77 RBIs. 

The 37-year-old was one of the best third basemen in baseball at one point in his career but has struggled over the last few years with injuries and inconsistent play. Donaldson's most impressive stretch came from 2014-2016 when he racked up his three All-Star nods and took home the 2015 American League Most Valuable Player Award after slashing .297/.371/.568 to go along with 41 home runs and a league-leading 123 RBIs and 122 runs scored. 

Donaldson now will become a free agent and look for a new home. It's unclear where he will land, but it wouldn't be too surprising to see him find a new team. The Yankees have plenty of infield depth at this point so the fact that Donaldson is the odd man out will allow the club to give more playing time to the young guys on the roster. Donaldson's last game with the Yankees ultimately was on July 15.