Toronto Blue Jays utility player Ernie Clement has capped off a remarkable career year with a prestigious international honour. Following a breakout 2025 season and a historic postseason run, Clement has been officially named to the roster for Team USA in the upcoming World Baseball Classic.
A Breakout Season Rewarded
The announcement, made on Tuesday, January 13, 2026, recognizes Clement's ascension as one of baseball's most valuable and versatile players. The 29-year-old native of Rochester delivered the best performance of his career last season, appearing in 157 games for the Blue Jays while batting .277. His defensive flexibility, seeing time all over the infield, made him an indispensable asset for the Toronto club.
Clement's value skyrocketed during the playoffs, where he set a new Major League Baseball record with 30 hits in a single postseason. His stellar performance included 12 hits in the World Series against the Los Angeles Dodgers and a 13-game hitting streak, the longest in Blue Jays playoff history. He also set an MLB record with 10 multi-hit games during the playoffs, cementing his status as a clutch performer.
WBC Schedule and Blue Jays Connections
Clement will join the American squad in Pool B of the World Baseball Classic, with preliminary round action set to begin in March 2026. Team USA's first game is scheduled for March 6 in Houston against Brazil. Intriguingly, the Brazilian roster could potentially feature Clement's former Blue Jays teammate, Bo Bichette, setting up a possible on-field reunion.
This selection adds to a significant offseason for Clement, who recently avoided salary arbitration by agreeing to a one-year contract worth $4.6 million (US). With his stellar play, he is now projected to be the Blue Jays' starting second baseman moving forward, especially if the team does not re-sign Bichette.
Blue Jays Well-Represented on Global Stage
Ernie Clement is not the only Toronto player preparing for the international tournament. The Blue Jays will have a strong presence across several national teams:
- Catcher Alejandro Kirk will represent Mexico, also in Pool B, meaning he and Clement could face off in Houston.
- Superstar first baseman Vladimir Guerrero Jr. is set to play for the Dominican Republic.
- Pitcher Jose Berrios has expressed his desire to play for his native Puerto Rico.
Clement's commitment to Team USA follows just one day after Minnesota Twins center fielder Byron Buxton also confirmed his participation. For the energetic infielder who became a fan favourite in Toronto, this call-up is the latest accolade in a year defined by hard work, record-setting achievements, and a well-deserved rise to prominence on baseball's biggest stages.
