Ernie Clement Sets Post-Season Hits Record Despite World Series Loss

Published

7 hours ago

2 November, 2025

Editorial

In a bittersweet moment for the Toronto Blue Jays, Ernie Clement achieved a remarkable feat by setting the record for the most hits in a Major League Baseball post-season. Despite his record-breaking performance, which saw him collect 30 hits during the 2025 playoffs, the Blue Jays fell short in their quest for the championship, losing to the Los Angeles Dodgers 5-4 in an intense Game 7 that extended into extra innings.

Clement’s achievement eclipsed the previous record of 29 hits set by Randy Arozarena of the Tampa Bay Rays in 2020. Yet, in the aftermath of the loss, Clement expressed that personal records paled in comparison to the camaraderie and support he felt from his teammates. “I don’t really care about it; I just love every single guy in here so much,” Clement shared, visibly emotional in the Blue Jays’ clubhouse while still in his uniform. “The only thing I can think of right now is spending this last night with all the boys. I’m just going to miss them in the off-season.”

Clement’s Journey to the Record

The 29-year-old Clement reflected on the season, revealing his deep appreciation for the connections he built with his teammates. “I couldn’t wait to come to the field every day and just hang with everybody. I’ve been crying for, like, probably an hour, so I thought I was done with the tears,” he admitted.

During the decisive Game 7, Clement had a critical opportunity to secure a victory for the Blue Jays, but his flyout in the bottom of the ninth with the bases loaded thwarted that chance. Following a solo home run by Dodgers second baseman Miguel Rojas that tied the game at 4-4, Toronto could not capitalize on their final at-bat.

Clement’s path to this moment has been anything but straightforward. Selected in the fourth round of the 2017 MLB Draft by the Cleveland Indians, he faced numerous challenges, including being designated for assignment after just one season in Cleveland. Following a brief stint with the Oakland Athletics, he was picked up by the Blue Jays in March 2023, where he began to flourish.

A Standout Performance

In the 2025 season, Clement played in 157 games, a significant increase compared to his previous seasons. His contributions were evident, earning him a nomination for a Gold Glove at both third base and as a utility player. His performance in the playoffs was particularly noteworthy, as he batted an impressive .411 with one home run, six doubles, and nine runs batted in over the course of 18 games. His overall playoff on-base percentage stood at .416.

Blue Jays manager John Schneider praised Clement’s achievements, describing his playoff performance as “historic.” He noted the caliber of pitchers Clement faced, highlighting the player’s growth from a waiver pick-up to a key contributor for the team. “Unbelievable run that he was on this entire post-season,” Schneider stated, expressing hope that Clement would win a Gold Glove. “He’s turned himself into an everyday Major Leaguer that is going to contribute to win a world championship.”

As the team reflects on the season, Clement remains grateful for the opportunity he has received. “I’ve always believed in myself. That’s something that I’ve never wavered from,” he said. “Through the lowest of lows and the highest of highs, I’ve always just brought it back to just believing in myself and knowing that I was ready for any opportunity that I got.”

Despite the disappointment of not securing the title, Clement’s journey and record-setting performance stand as a testament to his resilience and dedication to the game, leaving a lasting impact on the Blue Jays and their fans.