Where could Josh Donaldson be traded to in 2023? Top 3 landing spots for maligned New York Yankees third baseman

Once known as "The Bringer of Rain," Josh Donaldson now finds himself as a black cloud hovering over the New York Yankees' lineup. The 37-year-old third baseman from Pensacola, Florida, enjoyed the absolute pinnacle of an MLB career by winning the American League MVP in 2015, but now, Donaldson is a shadow of the player he once was.

During his 2015 AL MVP season with the Toronto Blue Jays, Donaldson was one of the top five players in the MLB. Unfortunately for Donaldson, a string of injuries and extended cold streaks have made him nothing more than a $21 million albatross for the New York Yankees.

"Josh Donaldson reached the left-field scoreboard with his second homer of the spring," Bryan Hoch tweeted.

Last season with the Yankees, Donaldson struggled mightily while hitting in the middle of a loaded offensive lineup. He finished the season with a paltry .222 batting average, while also hitting 15 home runs, along with 62 RBIs.

His .682 OPS was the worst of his career, a far cry from the .939 he reached in 2015. He also posted the second-most strikeouts of his career, whiffing 148 times in 132 games.

New York Yankees general manager Brian Cashman is reportedly determined to trade away Josh Donaldson.

Here is a look at the top three potential destinations for the struggling third baseman.

The Texas Rangers may be the ideal landing spot for Josh Donaldson

While the Texas Rangers may not have been the first thought as a destination for Donaldson, a deep look may show that it would make sense for both parties. For one, the Rangers have shown that money is not an issue as they attempt to win the World Series for the first time in franchise history.

The contracts handed out to Corey Seager and Marcus Semien show the front office's willingness to spend money. While Josh Donaldson is not on their level, if prospect Josh Jung does not prove to be ready this season, the Rangers may consider bringing in a proven third baseman.

"Texas rangers seem to not care about money and should simply be kind and take Josh Donaldson in a trade while eating all of his money to give Josh Jung time to develop in my humble opinion," Champagne Quagi tweeted.

The Miami Marlins could use additional help on offense

As the Miami Marlins continue to overhaul their offense, Donaldson could provide the team with another power batter. While he has struggled with batting average and OPS in recent years, he has managed 41 home runs over the last two seasons, an area where the Marlins are lacking.

While the Marlins have added veterans Jean Segura and Yuli Gurriel as well as Luis Arraez, those players are all versatile, which could allow the Marlins to get creative in order to get Donaldson into the lineup.

The Los Angeles Dodgers could be an intriguing fit

This may come as a surprise, however, the Los Angeles Dodgers have shown in the past to acquire struggling stars and attempt to resurrect their careers. Last season, the Dodgers acquired Joey Gallo from the New York Yankees for a relatively low price.

"Joey Gallo since being traded to the Dodgers: 35 PA, 3 HR / 5 RBI, .267/.371/.667/1.038, 184 wRC+" Dillard Barnhart tweeted.

Following the deal, Joey Gallo looked like a new player thanks to the coaches of the Dodgers adjusting some of his mechanics. While he struggled down the stretch, he was sensational after joining the team.

Josh Donaldson could become an interesting project for the Dodgers, who may be looking for another veteran to be able to play third base. The departure of Justin Turner in free agency could give Donaldson a role with the club even with Max Muncy expected to play the position.

The fact that they would also have a team option on his contract following the 2023 season it would allow them to cut bait with him if things do not work out.