Blue Jays Facing Ernie Clement Decision After Trade With Rangers

As the final hours before the trade deadline count down during the 2026 MLB season, the Toronto Blue Jays find themselves on the outside of the American League playoff race.

Ahead of Monday’s series opener against the Houston Astros, the Blue Jays are 52-60 and in last place in the American League East.

Just a season after winning the AL pennant, the Blue Jays have opted to turn their focus to the organization's future. On Sunday, the club traded two-time All-Star pitcher Kevin Gausman, who had been with the team since 2022. However, the Blue Jays were not finished making moves.

On Monday, the team made a deal with the Texas Rangers, acquiring infielder Josh Smith and minor league right-hander Josh Stephan in exchange for lefty reliever Adam Macko.

“Rangers are trading Josh Smith to Toronto. Getting lefty Adam Macko in return,” Rangers insider Evan Grant shared on X.

While Smith has struggled offensively this season, his arrival could create an interesting decision for Toronto regarding All-Star infielder Ernie Clement and the club's infield alignment moving forward.

While Smith is unlikely to replace Clement as the everyday second baseman, his ability to play second base, third base, shortstop and the outfield, combined with his left-handed bat, could give manager John Schneider another versatile option to mix into the lineup.

Although Smith has struggled offensively this year, slashing .213/.299/.272 with one home run and eight RBIs in 45 games, Toronto may value his defensive versatility. The addition of Smith could allow Schneider to give the All-Star occasional rest against difficult right-handed pitching matchups.

While Smith's arrival may not dramatically alter the Blue Jays' lineup immediately, it gives the club another versatile major league option as they continue evaluating their roster following the trade deadline on Monday afternoon.

Smith will now look to bounce back with a fresh start up north, while the Blue Jays evaluate how he will fit alongside their breakout star in Clement.