This Blue Jays infielder could be in line for a big pay bump

Ernie Clement has been one of the most valuable assets for the Toronto Blue Jays in 2025. After a slow start to 2025, Clement seemed to turn things around in May. As of now, he's third in hits on the team with 120, trailing only Bo Bichette (148) and Vladimir Guerrero Jr. (134). He's also third in runs scored with 64, two behind George Springer (66) in second and 16 behind Guerrero Jr. (80) in first. He's also been a consistent presence in the lineup with 118 games played, which ties him with Guerrero Jr. for the most on the Blue Jays roster.

Clement is coming off a series of big games. On Tuesday, his three-run homer in the fourth inning helped the Blue Jays to a 5-1 win over the Chicago Cubs. He hit the game-winning home run on Sunday againt the Los Angeles Dodgers to avoid a series sweep with the 5-4 win. He also hit a solo shot on Saturday, which was Toronto's only run in a 9-1 loss to the Dodgers.

Three of Clement's nine home runs this season have come in the past week. He's only three away from surpassing his career-high from last season of twelve home runs. He's already set a new career high in hits this season with 120.

Clement avoided arbitration with the Blue Jays in January when they agreed to a one-year contract for $1.975 million. Given his performance this season, Clement has earned a raise. However, he's not the only Blue Jay in need of a contract for 2026. Most notably, short stop Bo Bichette is set to enter free agency, as is pitcher Chris Bassitt. Dalton Varsho is another big name on the Blue Jays roster without a contract for next season.

Clement is also an elite fielder. Last season, he was nominated for a Gold Glove at third base but lost to Alex Bregman of the Houston Astros. This season, he's arguably playing even better. His fielding percentage in 2025 is .979, an improvement over last year's .954 Clement has the fourth most putouts (173), the third most double plays turned (44) and the most assists (200) on the Blue Jays' roster.

Clement has been a consistent contributor to the Blue Jays success this season both at the plate and the field. His performance has certainly earned him a big pay raise. Being one of several Blue Jays without a contract for 2026, it will be interesting to see how much the organization is willing to pay to keep him around.