Brief Introduction of Ernie Clement
Ernie James Clement is an American professional baseball utility player currently signed with the Toronto Blue Jays of Major League Baseball (MLB). Known for his exceptional versatility and defensive prowess, Clement has played multiple infield positions throughout his career, earning a reputation as a reliable and gritty player. He was drafted by the Cleveland Indians in the fourth round of the 2017 MLB draft after a successful collegiate career at the University of Virginia, where he was a key member of the 2015 College World Series championship team. Clement’s journey to becoming an everyday MLB player has been marked by perseverance, having been waived by multiple teams before finding a significant role with the Blue Jays. His high-contact, low-strikeout approach at the plate and his strong defensive skills have made him a valuable asset in the major leagues.
Ernie Clement Overview
| Full Name | Ernie James Clement |
| Date of Birth | March 22, 1996 |
| Age (as of 2025) | 29 |
| Birthplace | Rochester, New York, U.S. |
| Profession | Professional Baseball Utility Player |
| Husband/Wife | Not publicly available |
| Family | Peter and Julie Clement (Parents), Glennie and Ellie (Sisters) |
| Relationship/Affairs(GF/BF) | Information not disclosed |
| Net Worth | Estimated $5 million – $7 million |
Early Life and Education of Ernie Clement
Ernie Clement was born on March 22, 1996, in Rochester, New York, to parents Peter and Julie Clement. He grew up as the middle child with two sisters, Glennie and Ellie. From a very young age, Clement displayed a passion for baseball, starting to play at the age of two. Growing up in a region where baseball wasn’t the most prominent sport, he also participated in ice hockey and soccer. He attended Brighton High School in his hometown of Rochester, where he excelled in both baseball and ice hockey. On the baseball diamond, Clement was a standout player, earning the title of Rochester City Athletic Conference Player of the Year twice and being named the league MVP in both his junior and senior years. He left an indelible mark on Brighton High School’s baseball program, setting career records for plate appearances (329), batting average (.464), singles (87), doubles (34), and stolen bases (38). He also holds the single-season record for batting average at .560.
Despite his high school success, Clement went undrafted in the 2014 MLB draft. He then enrolled at the University of Virginia, where he would play college baseball for the Cavaliers. His freshman year in 2015 was nothing short of spectacular. He played in 62 games and was instrumental in the team’s run to the College World Series. Clement delivered a clutch two-run walk-off single in the NCAA Super Regional to send Virginia to Omaha. He continued to shine on the biggest collegiate stage, hitting .292 in the College World Series and being named to the All-CWS Team as the Cavaliers captured their first-ever national championship. In his sophomore year, he earned a spot on the All-Atlantic Coast Conference Third Team, an honor he would receive again as a junior. During the summer of 2016, he played in the prestigious Cape Cod Baseball League for the Harwich Mariners and was named the league’s Most Valuable Player after hitting .353. One of the most remarkable aspects of his collegiate career was his incredible plate discipline; in 745 at-bats, Clement struck out only 31 times.
Ernie Clement’s Career
Ernie Clement’s professional baseball journey began when he was selected by the Cleveland Indians in the fourth round, 132nd overall, of the 2017 MLB draft. He signed with the team and made his professional debut with the Mahoning Valley Scrappers, a Low-A affiliate. Over the next few years, he steadily climbed the minor league ladder, playing for the Lake County Captains, Lynchburg Hillcats, and Akron RubberDucks. The 2020 minor league season was canceled due to the COVID-19 pandemic, but Clement’s development continued.
He was first called up to the major leagues on May 30, 2021, for a doubleheader but did not make an appearance. His official MLB debut came on June 13, 2021, as a pinch hitter against the Seattle Mariners. He spent parts of the 2021 and 2022 seasons with the Cleveland franchise, which had been renamed the Guardians. During his time in Cleveland, he showcased his defensive versatility but struggled to find consistent success at the plate. In a unique moment, on June 27, 2022, Clement became the first position player to pitch for Cleveland since 2019.
In September 2022, Clement was designated for assignment by the Guardians and was subsequently claimed off waivers by the Oakland Athletics. His time with the A’s was brief, appearing in only six games before being designated for assignment again in December. After being released by the Athletics in March 2023, his career was at a crossroads.
However, Clement’s fortunes turned when he signed a minor league contract with the Toronto Blue Jays organization just two days later. He started the season with the Triple-A Buffalo Bisons, where he posted impressive numbers. His hard work paid off when his contract was selected to the Blue Jays’ active roster on May 23, 2023. Clement quickly established himself as a valuable utility player for Toronto. In 2024, he had a breakout season, setting career highs in games played (139), hits (114), home runs (12), and RBI (51). His exceptional defense did not go unnoticed, as he was named a finalist for the American League Gold Glove Award at third base. He recorded an impressive 10 Defensive Runs Saved at the position. His consistent performance and relentless style of play have made him a fan favorite and a key contributor to the Blue Jays’ lineup.
Ernie Clement Personal Life & Family
Ernie Clement was raised in Rochester, New York, by his parents, Peter and Julie Clement. He shares a close bond with his two sisters, Glennie and Ellie. Growing up, he was a multi-sport athlete, which likely contributed to the athleticism he displays on the baseball field. Information regarding his marital status or current relationships is not publicly available. He maintains a private personal life, with the focus of his public persona being his baseball career. Clement is known for his work ethic and dedication to the sport, traits that were instilled in him from a young age.
Awards and Achievements of Ernie Clement
- American League Gold Glove Award Finalist at Third Base (2024)
- MLBPAA Heart and Hustle Award – Toronto Blue Jays Team Winner (2025)
- Cape Cod Baseball League MVP (2016)
- College World Series All-Tournament Team (2015)
- College World Series Champion with University of Virginia (2015)
- All-Atlantic Coast Conference Third Team (2016, 2017)
Ernie Clement Net Worth and Income
As of 2025, Ernie Clement’s net worth is estimated to be between $5 million and $7 million. His primary source of income is his salary as a professional baseball player in Major League Baseball. For the 2025 season, Clement signed a one-year contract with the Toronto Blue Jays worth $1.97 million to avoid arbitration. His career earnings in MLB have steadily increased as he has established himself as a valuable major league player. His initial signing bonus after being drafted in 2017 was $350,000. His financial standing is expected to continue to grow as he progresses in his career.
Legacy and Influence
Ernie Clement’s legacy is still being written, but he has already made a significant impact as a player who embodies perseverance and versatility. His journey from being designated for assignment to becoming a Gold Glove finalist is an inspiration to many aspiring athletes. He is known for his elite bat-to-ball skills and a unique hitting approach characterized by a high swing rate and an exceptionally low strikeout rate, drawing comparisons to players like Luis Arraez. Defensively, his ability to play multiple infield positions at a high level provides immense value to his team. Teammates and coaches often praise his relentless work ethic and passion for the game, which was formally recognized when he won the Blue Jays’ Heart and Hustle Award. He represents the type of player who may not always grab the headlines but is essential to a team’s success through his consistent contributions and willingness to do whatever is asked of him.
Interesting Facts about Ernie Clement
- In college, he struck out only 31 times in 745 career at-bats, showcasing incredible plate discipline from a young age.
- He was a multi-sport athlete in high school, excelling in both baseball and ice hockey.
- As a freshman at the University of Virginia, he hit a walk-off single in the NCAA Super Regionals to send his team to the College World Series, which they went on to win.
- On June 27, 2022, while with the Cleveland Guardians, he pitched in a major league game, a rare feat for a position player.
- He set a franchise record for the highest batting average through a player’s first 31 games with the Toronto Blue Jays (.389).
Controversies
There are no publicly known controversies involving Ernie Clement. He has maintained a professional and positive public image throughout his career.
Social Media Presence
- Instagram – Information not disclosed
- Twitter – Information not disclosed
- YouTube – Not publicly available
Final Words about Ernie Clement
Ernie Clement’s career is a testament to the power of resilience in professional sports. After facing the uncertainty of being waived by two different organizations, he has carved out a vital role for himself with the Toronto Blue Jays, becoming a standout defensive player and a uniquely effective offensive contributor. His journey from a fourth-round draft pick to a Gold Glove finalist is a compelling narrative of hard work and dedication. As he enters the prime of his career, Clement continues to refine his game, demonstrating that he is more than just a utility player but a valuable and impactful member of a major league roster. His future in baseball looks bright as he continues to build upon his success and solidify his reputation as one of the game’s most tenacious and versatile players.