"It didn't take an arbitrator to reveal what was already obvious; Ernie Clement deserves a raise. The Blue Jays utility infielder, who was nominated for not one, but two separate Gold Glove awards after the 2025 season, indeed got his raise. The final number for Clement's contract was right around what industry experts projected it would be. MLB Trade Rumors had Clement's 2026 salary set at $4.3 million and the final number is $4.6,"
"That number almost feels like a bargain price after what Clement did in the postseason. He slashed .411/.416/.562 with one home run, nine RBIs, 13 runs scored and set the record for the most hits (30) in MLB history in a single playoff run. As of right now, Clement would be the Blue Jays starting second baseman, and if he can replicate his playoff and regular season success in 2026, this could be one of the better contracts handed out all winter."
"During the 2025 regular season, Clement was worth 4.3 bWAR, hitting .277/.313/.398. The 29-year-old also had nine home runs and 50 RBIs. Not bad for a guy that had not played more than 140 games in a single season previously. Prior to coming to Toronto, Clement was drafted by Cleveland in 2017 and made his MLB debut in 2021. He got into 63 games with the Guardians in 2022 before being selected off waivers by the Oakland Athletics."
Ernie Clement agreed to a $4.6 million salary with the Blue Jays for 2026, avoiding arbitration after a breakout 2025 season. MLB Trade Rumors had projected $4.3 million; Clement earned $1.9 million in 2025. Clement posted a historic postseason, slashing .411/.416/.562 with one home run, nine RBIs, 13 runs and a record 30 playoff hits. He produced 4.3 bWAR in 2025, hitting .277/.313/.398 with nine homers and 50 RBIs. Defensively versatile, he received two Gold Glove nominations and is positioned as Toronto's starting second baseman. Clement debuted in 2021 and joined Toronto via free agency in 2023.
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