After 2015 American League MVP, Josh Donaldson, was traded to the Cleveland Indians last week, it was reported by Jon Heyman of Fancred that the Blue Jays did indeed offer Donaldson a contract extension. The contract extension that was supposedly offered was for three years/$75 million with the possibility of negotiating a higher value. Josh Donaldson’s agent, Dan Lozano of MVP Sports Group, denies reports of a contract extension offer made by the Toronto Blue Jays to his client.
Lozano, who represents other MLB stars such as Joey Votto and Albert Pujols, denied the Heyman’s reports of a contract extension. According to CBS Sports, Lozano stated that “when Jon Heyman mis-reported information of Josh Donaldson, he once again is incorrect regarding contract negotiations between Josh and the Blue Jays. After rumors continued to circulate, Donaldson tweeted at Heyman saying, ‘I would listen to an offer, but I haven’t had one to listen to so it’s been pretty easy.’”
Clearly, there are different opinions. But, which side is lying? Lozano has been in similar situations with former clients and peers before the Donaldson trade even occurred. In 2011, while Lozano was trying to negotiate the largest contract in baseball history for his superstar client Albert Pujols, a manila envelope filled with names, documents and photos showed allegations of harassment and mischievous behavior of Lozano going to the extreme to get what he wants.
Regardless of whether Lozano or Heyman is lying, Josh Donaldson is now a member of the Cleveland Indians and will make his starting debut at 3rd base for the leaders of the AL Central Tuesday night against the Tamp Bay Rays.