The Toronto Blue Jays have an important offseason ahead. The organization clearly took a step backwards this year, missing out on postseason play less than a year after reaching the World Series.
While they made a push for October in the second half, many of their usual contributors disappointed, and that list is headlined by both Vladimir Guerrero Jr. and Ernie Clement.
For Clement, the season was a tale of two halves. The first half was incredible as he became the leading vote-getter in the American League and earned his first All-Star selection. However, after the All-Star break he was one of the worst qualified hitters in baseball.
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Overall across 158 games, Clement posted a .259 batting average, .285 on-base percentage, .649 OPS, nine home runs and 48 RBIs. It was his worst offensive season since joining the Blue Jays in 2023.
General manager Ross Atkins has indicated that Clement will have to earn his spot at second base moving forward.
However, there could be a world where Toronto decides to move Clement back into a utility role and add a player from their AL East rivals in the process.
Second baseman Jazz Chisholm Jr. is about to hit free agency, and according to MLB.com’s Mark Feinsand, Toronto is seen as a possible fit.
Why the Blue Jays Should Target Jazz Chisholm Jr.
New York will likely move on from Chisholm and the Blue Jays have been aggressive in improving their team.
The lineup desperately needs a jolt, and Chisholm could be the guy. The 28-year-old is a two-time All-Star and Silver Slugger, but after a down year in 2026, he could be available at a discount.
With Chisholm in the mix, Clement would likely still have a role filling in wherever necessary in the infield while also potentially getting some time off if his struggles continue.
Toronto Blue Jays Essentials
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- Vladimir Guerrero Jr.’s net worth, MLB salary, and bonuses
