Sure they could do that, but they could also offer him the QO, and if he rejects they get draft pick out of it. I'd rather see him stick around for another year though.
I dont really think it makes sense for toronto to trade donaldson now. His value has tanked because of injuries so they're not going to get anyone worthwile in return. I think jays are going to try to re-sign him to a short term deal and rebuild his value so they can maybe get something good for...
AA really lucked out with running a young and talented team. Hopefully he doesn't get trigger happy and trade his young guns for a 40 year old knuckleballer.