After a remarkable journey that started with being let go by the struggling Oakland Athletics and culminated in setting a new hits record during the MLB postseason, Ernie Clement’s baseball odyssey continues to soar.
The tenacious utility infielder for the Toronto Blue Jays is now gearing up for another milestone as he is selected to represent Team USA at the upcoming World Baseball Classic, as confirmed by USA Baseball on Tuesday.
Scheduled to unfold from March 5 to 17 across Miami, Houston, San Juan, and Tokyo, the tournament promises to be a thrilling showcase of international baseball talent.
Clement’s recent outstanding performance in the postseason, where he boasted a remarkable .411/.416/.562 slash line with one home run, nine RBIs, and a staggering 30 hits, has solidified his reputation as a force to be reckoned with on the field. His exceptional display surpassed the previous hits record set by Randy Arozarena in 2020, highlighting Clement’s prowess and determination.
The Brighton, N.Y., native’s contributions were instrumental in propelling the Blue Jays to the World Series, with a standout moment being his game-winning run in Game 4 of the Fall Classic after a pivotal double off Shohei Ohtani.
During the regular season, Clement showcased his versatility and skill, achieving career highs in games played (157), runs (83), hits (151), and doubles (35) while maintaining a solid slash line of .277/.313/.398.
His stellar defensive abilities did not go unnoticed, earning him nominations for the American League Gold Glove award at both third base and as a utility player. Clement’s impact extended beyond statistics, as he quickly endeared himself to Toronto fans with his gritty playing style and unwavering dedication, even battling through injuries to help his team.
Recognized for his achievements, Clement was honored in his hometown of Monroe County, New York, where he received a key to the city and had a day named in his honor, celebrating his contributions on and off the field.
Keyphrase: Ernie Clement Baseball Journey
