TORONTO — In one of the most monumental announcements in franchise history, the Toronto Blue Jays have confirmed that Josh Donaldson, former AL MVP and long-time fan favorite, will return to the organization — not as a player, but as a co-owner.
The news was made public Thursday morning by the Blue Jays’ investment group, Professional Baseball Club, led by Chairman Edward Rogers. The decision marks the start of a bold new chapter for the franchise, bridging past glories with future ambitions.
“Josh Donaldson was more than a player — he was a symbol of an era,” said Rogers during a press conference at Rogers Centre. “Bringing him back in this ownership capacity is a full-circle moment for us and for all Blue Jays fans.”
A Historic Return
Josh Donaldson, widely regarded as one of the greatest players in Blue Jays history, starred for the club from 2015 to 2018, earning the 2015 AL MVP award, multiple All-Star selections, and helping lead Toronto to back-to-back ALCS appearances in 2015 and 2016. His fiery leadership, clutch performances, and electric presence helped rejuvenate baseball in Canada during his prime years with the club.
Now, in 2025, Donaldson returns with a new role and a new mission — to help guide the team from the executive suite.
“Toronto is home,” Donaldson said in a prepared statement. “The fans, the city, the memories — it all shaped who I am. This opportunity to come back as a co-owner, to invest in this organization and be part of its future, is truly special. I’m all in.”
According to sources familiar with the deal, Donaldson will be part of a strategic ownership group focusing on player development, fan engagement, and international growth, especially in Canada and Latin America. His involvement will also extend to on-field operations in an advisory role, though he will not be part of day-to-day management decisions.
A New Vision for the Blue Jays
Edward Rogers made it clear during the announcement that this move is about more than nostalgia — it’s about building a sustainable, world-class baseball organization for decades to come.
“This isn’t ceremonial,” Rogers emphasized. “Josh is an intelligent, passionate baseball mind with global recognition. He brings leadership, experience, and a championship mindset to our ownership table. His involvement helps us expand our reach and elevate our culture.”
Donaldson will also contribute to grassroots baseball initiatives in Canada, including expanding youth training programs, launching baseball academies, and creating new pathways for underrepresented communities to access the sport.
Reaction Around the League
The announcement has sent shockwaves through the MLB community, with players, former teammates, and fans reacting across social media.
Former Blue Jays pitcher Marcus Stroman tweeted:
“Wow. My brother @BringerOfRain20 back in Toronto — as an OWNER. That’s legendary. Respect. 🔥🇨🇦”
MLB Commissioner Rob Manfred released a statement congratulating both Donaldson and the Blue Jays on “a forward-thinking partnership that represents the evolving nature of leadership and investment in Major League Baseball.”
Donaldson becomes one of the few former MLB stars to take an ownership stake in a team — joining the likes of Derek Jeter (former Marlins co-owner) and Alex Rodriguez (co-owner of the Minnesota Timberwolves in the NBA) in forging a post-playing path that stays deeply connected to the game.
Fanbase Reaction: “The Bringer of Rain Returns”
Within hours of the announcement, hashtags like #BringerOfRain and #DonaldsonReturns trended across Canadian Twitter and Instagram. Fans outside Rogers Centre were seen taking photos with makeshift signs, some reading “Co-Owner MVP!” and “He’s Back Where He Belongs!”
Season ticket inquiries reportedly spiked within 90 minutes of the press conference, according to a source in the Blue Jays ticketing office.
“It’s rare to see a player come back like this — not in a jersey, but still ready to fight for the team,” said longtime Jays fan and season ticket holder, Maria Kavanagh. “He helped put us on the map in the 2010s. Now he’s going to help us stay there.”
What Comes Next
While details about Donaldson’s official role will be released in the coming weeks, his presence at Spring Training and in team-related media campaigns is expected. Insiders hint at a likely public unveiling event at Rogers Centre in early 2025, where Donaldson will address fans directly and outline his vision for the club’s future.
With the Blue Jays aiming to retool after a tough 2024 campaign, Donaldson’s involvement brings not only excitement but a renewed sense of urgency.
“We’ve got unfinished business in Toronto,” Donaldson said. “It’s time to bring championship baseball back to Canada.”
ESPN will continue to follow this developing story as more details emerge.
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