Josh Donaldson headed north of the border earlier this week to get some hockey pads but started an impromptu fan fest after a photo surfaced on social media.
Donaldson was looking for some hockey gear for an outing at a local rink with family and friends when he walked into All Pro Source for Sports in Newmarket, Ont. When the staff got him fitted for some new equipment, they asked if he would throw on a Maple Leafs jersey and pose for their Instagram account.
Thank you to the @MapleLeafs for giving me the opportunity tonight to start in my first NHL game!! I’ll be the first two way player to play in the MLB and NHL. Momma we made it. pic.twitter.com/AtBkTODzoc
— Josh Donaldson (@BringerOfRain20) October 27, 2021
The photo grabbed attention on social media and fans flocked to the store to meet The Bringer of Rain. According to the Toronto Star, Donaldson spent three to four hours signing autographs, taking pictures, and greeting fans before completing the errand.
“He was a genuine, nice humble person,” store clerk Joel Morelly told the Toronto Sun. “It was cool he took the time to talk with everybody.”
Donaldson won the American League MVP award in 2015 and helped the Blue Jays reach the American League Championship Series in 2015 and 2016. His tenure in Toronto made him a legend north of the border and he received a standing ovation when he returned last September.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xs3MEzg_6FY
Donaldson may not have the same fandom with Twins fans after two injury-plagued seasons in Minnesota but it’s clear Toronto hasn’t forgotten about their former superstar.
