Ernie Clement Joins Team USA for World Baseball Classic

Ernie Clement, a utility infielder for the Toronto Blue Jays, has been selected to represent Team USA at the upcoming World Baseball Classic. This prestigious tournament is set to take place from March 5 to March 17, 2025, across multiple cities including Miami, Houston, San Juan, and Tokyo. His recent performance has garnered significant attention and recognition in the baseball community.

Outstanding Performance in the Post-Season

Clement recently made headlines with a record-breaking performance in the MLB postseason. He hit an impressive .411, recording a total of 30 hits, which surpassed the previous postseason record of 29 hits held by Randy Arozarena since 2020. Additionally, Clement contributed one home run and nine RBIs during this run.

Key Achievements

• MLB postseason batting average: .411
• Postseason hits: 30 (new record)
• Home runs: 1
• RBIs: 9

His efforts helped propel the Blue Jays to the World Series, where he notably scored the game-winning run in Game 4 against the Los Angeles Angels after a pivotal double against star pitcher Shohei Ohtani.

Successful Regular Season

In the regular season, Clement registered his career-best numbers. He played 157 games, scored 83 runs, and achieved 151 hits, including 35 doubles. His overall batting line stood at .277/.313/.398.

Defensive Excellence

His defensive abilities have not gone unnoticed. Clement received nominations for the American League Gold Glove award at third base and as a utility player, highlighting his versatility and skill on the field. His contributions earned him 4.3 wins above replacement, ranking third on his team.

Celebrated in His Hometown

Recognizing his achievements, Monroe County in New York honored Clement on November 29 by presenting him with a key to the county. This day was officially proclaimed as “Ernie Clement Day,” solidifying his status as a local hero.

Looking Ahead

As Clement prepares to join Team USA for the World Baseball Classic, fans are eager to see how his talents will shine on the international stage. His journey from a rough patch with the Oakland Athletics to a celebrated player in Toronto exemplifies resilience and determination.