Chris Donnels embarked on his Major League Baseball journey as a third baseman and occasional first baseman. Drafted by the New York Mets in the first round of the 1987 MLB Draft, he made his debut with the team in 1991. During his time with the Mets, Donnels played in parts of three seasons, showcasing his skills primarily as a third baseman. His tenure with the Mets was marked by his efforts to establish himself in the major leagues, although he faced challenges in securing a permanent spot on the roster.
In 1994, Donnels transitioned to the Florida Marlins, where he continued to develop his career. His stint with the Marlins was brief, and he soon found himself moving to the Houston Astros. With the Astros, Donnels had the opportunity to play more regularly, appearing in a significant number of games during the 1995 season. His time in Houston allowed him to demonstrate his abilities at the plate and in the field, contributing to the team's efforts during his tenure.
Donnels' career took another turn when he joined the Boston Red Sox in 1997. Although his time with the Red Sox was short-lived, he continued to bring his experience and skills to the team. After his stint in Boston, Donnels ventured overseas to Japan, where he played for the Orix BlueWave in 1998. This international experience added a new dimension to his career, allowing him to compete in a different baseball environment and further hone his skills.
Returning to the United States, Donnels signed with the Los Angeles Dodgers in 2000. His role with the Dodgers primarily involved serving as a pinch hitter and providing depth to the infield positions. During his time with the Dodgers, Donnels contributed to the team's efforts with his veteran presence and ability to deliver in key situations.
In the latter part of his career, Donnels joined the Arizona Diamondbacks in 2002. Although his time with the Diamondbacks was brief, he continued to offer his experience and skills to the team. Throughout his career, Donnels was known for his perseverance and adaptability, navigating the challenges of professional baseball across multiple teams and even internationally.
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