Auburn athletics announced on Mar. 27 that former Major League Baseball player Josh Donaldson will be inducted into the Auburn Baseball Wall of Fame at Plainsman Park. The ceremony is scheduled to take place during the Georgia series from May 14-16.
Donaldson will become the fifth member honored, joining Tim Hudson, Bo Jackson, Gregg Olson, and Frank Thomas, who were all inducted in February 2010. The recognition highlights Donaldson’s contributions both as a player and supporter of Auburn baseball.
Head coach Butch Thompson said, “Josh’s impact on our program goes well beyond what he did during his playing days both here and in the big leagues. He continues to give back and pour into our student-athletes and their player development, and now it’s time for us to give back to him. This recognition couldn’t come at a better time for someone who has been so impactful to Auburn baseball.”
Athletics director John Cohen also commented on Donaldson’s achievements: “Josh Donaldson deserves his place on the Auburn Baseball Wall of Fame. One of the most feared hitters in the Southeastern Conference from 2005-07, Josh enjoyed a stellar 13-season MLB career, highlighted by his 2015 American League Most Valuable Player award. Beyond his impressive statistics, Josh has consistently invested in the Auburn baseball program with his time and resources.”
During his three years at Auburn from 2005-07, Donaldson played in 158 games with a .307 batting average and led multiple team categories before being selected by the Chicago Cubs as the 48th overall pick in the MLB Draft. His professional career included stints with seven major league teams over thirteen seasons.
Reacting to news of his induction, Donaldson said: “Oh, I appreciate that. Wow… That’s going to mean a lot to me, and I’m looking forward to my kids being able to see that too… I’m kind of at a loss for words right now.”
Donaldson’s career accomplishments include winning American League MVP honors in 2015 after hitting .297 with a league-best 123 RBI that season. He is also recognized as a three-time All-Star (2014-16), two-time Silver Slugger (2015-16), recipient of both the Hank Aaron Award (AL) in 2015 and Comeback Player of the Year (NL) award in 2019.
