Former Auburn star Josh Donaldson given unique honor at Plainsman Park

Josh Donaldson made a career in Major League Baseball by hitting the ball over the outfield wall, hitting 279 home runs in his 13-year career.

Now, his name will forever be immortalized on the Wall of Fame at Plainsman Park as he becomes just the fifth player to earn the honor, following in the footsteps of Bo Jackson, Frank Thomas, Gregg Olson and Tim Hudson.

Josh Donaldson will join four other former Tigers on the outfield wall

“Oh, I appreciate that. Wow,” Donaldson said when he was told the news. “Oh man, that’s awesome. I’m glad to hear that. Obviously, that’s a huge honor for me of being with those guys. That’s going to mean a lot to me, and I’m looking forward to my kids being able to see that, too. That’s pretty special. I’m kind of at a loss for words right now.”

In his three-year career on the Plains, Donaldson hit for a .307 average with 42 doubles, 28 homers and 128 RBIs. He led the Tigers in batting average (.349), hits (75), runs (63), RBIs (54), doubles (19) and total bases (127) during the 2007 season. 

“Josh’s impact on our program goes well beyond what he did during his playing days both here and in the big leagues,’ head coach Butch Thompson said. “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.”

The 48th overall pick in the 2007 draft by the Chicago Cubs, Donaldson would go on to be a three-time All-Star, two-time Silver Slugger Award winner and win the American League MVP in 2015 while playing for the Toronto Blue Jays. He retired in 2003 after playing for seven different teams in his career.