How Ernie Clement and Addison Barger's versatility affects Blue Jays offseason goals

Throughout the regular and postseason, Ernie Clement and Addison Barger established themselves as top players for the Toronto Blue Jays. During the regular season, Clement slashed .277/.313/.398 while Barger slashed .243/.301/.454. Barger's 21 home runs were the third most among Blue Jays players.

Both players stepped up to the next level during the postseason. Clement broke the MLB record for the most hits in a single postseason with 30 and the Blue Jays record for the longest postseason hitting streak (13 games). Barger made history in Game 1 of the World Series with the first pinch-hit grand slam ever in the fall classic. Barger also tied the record for the most multi-hit games in the World Series with six.

What makes Clement and Barger so useful to Toronto this offseason, however, is their prowess in the field. Clement played all over the infield for the Blue Jays during the regular season and earned Gold Glove nominations as a utility player and as a third baseman. Clement led the majors in defensive runs saved (DRS) with 22 and had the highest defensive wins above replacement (dWAR) at 2.9.

How Ernie Clement and Addison Barger's versatility affects Blue Jays offseason goals

Barger split his time between third base and right field. His biggest asset defensively is his mighty arm. Barger is ranked in the 99th percentile for arm strength in MLB. His power was on full display during the postseason. In Game 3 of the World Series, Barger had a 99 MPH throw from right field to home plate to get Freddie Freeman out.

Both Clement and Barger display strong versatility defensively. This served the Blue Jays well in 2025, but it could be even more handy this offseason. With their adaptability, the Blue Jays may only need to sign one new fielder, and it could be an infielder or an outfielder. The Blue Jays are yet to make a big signing in the field, though they've been linked with big names such as Kyle Tucker and Alex Bregman, while still being in the hunt to bring back Bo Bichette.

If the Blue Jays sign Tucker, Barger can move to third base full-time. However, if the Blue Jays sign Bregman, Barger can stay in right field. Clement's position in either situation would likely depend on whether the Blue Jays re-sign Bichette, and if they do, whether he returns as a shortstop or a second baseman.

Clement and Barger have proven they are big assets for the Blue Jays. Both players played a significant role in the Blue Jays' run to the World Series in 2025. Both players showed a willingness and a capability to move around the field, depending on what the team needed. How they contribute to the team in 2026 depends on what the Blue Jays do in free agency. However, they have given the Blue Jays a lot of flexibility.