Team USA Makes Unexpected Ernie Clement Move Before Rockies Game
The Toronto Blue Jays There had been loads of heroes within the lineup who carried the membership to the World Series final 12 months. While that stage of manufacturing was anticipated from first basemanVladimir Guerrero Jr.., the face of the franchise, the contributions from utility infielder Ernie Clement had been essentially the most shocking.
Clement made historical past by setting the MLB document for many hits in a single postseason, gathering 30 hits throughout 18 video games final October. He completed the postseason with a .411 batting common, .416 on-base share and .977 OPS, together with one dwelling run and 9 RBIs.
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That was a large soar from his regular-season position, the place he was primarily valued for his defensive versatility moderately than his bat.
Toronto Blue Jays third baseman Ernie Clement (22)© John E. Sokolowski-Imagn Images
(© John E. Sokolowski-Imagn Images)
As the Blue Jays put together for Opening Day, Clement has been away from camp this week, not attributable to damage however as a result of he has reported to Team USA for the World Baseball Classic. The event is not going to have an effect on his availability for the beginning of the MLB season and may give him useful reps towards elite worldwide competitors.
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But with Team USA possessing one of many deepest rosters within the WBC, it was unclear the place Clement would match or whether or not he would merely function a bench possibility. The infield group alone options three All-Stars, Alex Bregman, Bobby Witt Jr. and Gunnar Hendersonall of whom are superior offensive gamers.
However, on Wednesday forward of Team USA’s exhibition sport towards the Colorado Rockiessupervisor Mark DeRosa made an sudden choice. He moved Clement to left subject and slotted him eighth within the lineup. It marked the primary time in Clement’s skilled profession that he has performed the outfield.
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The transfer additionally provides Clement an actual probability to get on the sector and make an affect, useful expertise he can carry again into Blue Jays camp as soon as the event wraps up.
Clement will enter his fourth season with the Blue Jays in 2026, and the group is lucky to have him beneath group management for the following three years. He stands as one among Toronto’s finest reclamation initiatives, becoming a member of the membership on a minor-league deal in 2023 and flourishing ever since.
His rise from depth piece to postseason standout has reshaped how the Blue Jays view his long-term position, and his continued progress may make him one of the crucial impactful utility gamers in baseball this season.
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Related: Blue Jays Lose Player to Cubs Amid Spring Training
This story was initially printed by Athlon Sports on Mar 4, 2026, the place it first appeared within the MLB part. Add Athlon Sports as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
