Ernie Clement is poised to be a critical asset for the Toronto Blue Jays in 2026, building on his historic 2025 season. With his remarkable postseason display, where he set records and demonstrated unparalleled versatility, Clement has emerged as a key player in a deep lineup. Following the signing of Kazuma Okamoto, Clement will likely shift to second base, filling the gap left by Bo Bichette and proving his importance as a dynamic utility player.

By the Numbers
  • Clement slashed .277/.313/.398 with 83 runs scored and 35 doubles in the 2025 season.
  • In the postseason, he achieved a .411 batting average with 30 hits, an MLB record.
  • His 105 singles were the highest among infielders who played at least 10 games at each position in 2025.
  • Clement registered a Fielding Run Value of +10, ranking him tied for ninth among all infielders.
State of Play
  • Clement played 89 of 157 games at third base last season but is expected to transition to second base after the signing of Okamoto.
  • He exhibited exceptional defensive abilities, starting games at all four infield positions and multiple spots in the batting order.
What's Next

As the Blue Jays move into the 2026 season, Clement's adaptability will be even more crucial as he takes on a primary role at second base and supports the infield dynamically. His presence in the lineup is expected to influence game outcomes substantially.

Bottom Line

Ernie Clement is a cornerstone of the Blue Jays’ strategy, bringing unmatched versatility and skill to the team. His ability to excel under pressure and perform at a high level in crucial moments positions him as not just a utility player, but a potential game-changer for the upcoming season.