Jays Josh Donaldson named American League MVP

Toronto Blue Jays third baseman Josh Donaldson has been named the American League MVP.

Donaldson hit .297 with a league-best 123 runs batted in to help the Blue Jays to their first AL East title — and first playoff appearance — since 1993.

The 29-year-old beat Los Angeles Angels outfielder Mike Trout for the honours and joined 1987 winner George Bell as the only Blue Jays players to be named AL MVP.

“Enjoy the club, man,” Bell said in a video message sent out by the Blue Jays. “I’m glad for you, for your family and for Toronto Blue Jays fans.”

What was characterized as a close race leading up to Thursday’s announcement turned out to be an easy win for Donaldson, who took 23 first-place votes and seven second-place votes.

Trout had seven first-place and 22 second-place votes, as well as one third-place vote.

Outfielder Lorenzo Cain of the Kansas City Royals was third with 20 third-place votes.

Washington Nationals outfielder Bryce Harper was a unanimous choice as National League MVP.

Diamondbacks first baseman Paul Goldschmidt finished second and Toronto native Joey Votto, a first baseman with Cincinnati, was third.

Earlier this month, Donaldson was named a Silver Slugger award winner for the first time in his career.

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