Blue Jays' Josh Donaldson receives record $23 million to avoid arbitration

According to SportsNet's Shi Davidi, the Toronto Blue Jays and third baseman Josh Donaldson have agreed to a one-year, $23 million deal to avoid going to arbitration.

What It Means:

For an arbitration-eligible player, Donaldson's $23 million sets a MLB record. Not signing the 32-year-old to a long-term extension will allow him to walk in free agency this winter. He should, however, remain a top of trade talks as the season progresses.

In 113 games a year ago, Donaldson hit .270 with 33 home runs, 78 RBI and a .403 wOBA.