Ernie Clement – Toronto Blue Jays Biography, Contract, Net Worth Information

Ernie Clement has made a name for himself as a valuable utility player for the Toronto Blue Jays. Born on March 22, 1996, in Rochester, NY, he’s shown his versatility by playing third base, shortstop, and second base during his Major League Baseball career.

Ernie Clement signed a contract worth $1,970,000 with the Toronto Blue Jays, fully guaranteed as his annual salary for the current season. That’s a big leap from his previous $720,000 salary, highlighting how much his value has grown within the organization.

Right now, his estimated net worth sits at about $1.7 million, according to salary data.

Clement’s journey to the majors started when the Cleveland Indians picked him in the fourth round (132nd overall) of the 2017 MLB Draft after his college days. He’s become an important piece of the Blue Jays roster, thanks to his ability to play multiple positions.

He keeps developing as a reliable utility player and steadily boosting his market value in pro baseball.

Ernie Clement Early Life and Childhood

Ernie James Clement’s path to professional baseball began well before he joined the Toronto Blue Jays. His early experiences and influences shaped the versatile player he is today.

Family Background and Upbringing

Ernie Clement was born in Rochester, New York, on March 22, 1996. He grew up in a supportive family that encouraged his athletic dreams from the start.

His parents saw his natural talent and competitive drive, so they signed him up for local youth baseball leagues. He quickly stood out among his peers.

In the Clement household, academics and athletics got equal attention. Winters in upstate New York forced him to adapt by training indoors and making the most of the baseball season when the weather allowed.

His dad often spent evenings playing catch with him, teaching the basics of fielding and hitting. Those fundamentals later became trademarks of Ernie’s playing style.

High School Achievements

At Brighton High School in Rochester, Clement became a multi-sport athlete with exceptional baseball skills. He lettered in both baseball and hockey, showing off his athletic range.

As a shortstop for the Brighton Barons, Clement’s defense and consistent hitting made him a standout.

Key High School Accomplishments:

• All-Greater Rochester selection
• Team captain as a junior and senior
• Batted over .400 during high school
• Led his team to sectional championships

Even with those stats, top baseball programs didn’t heavily recruit him at first. That underdog status just fueled his determination to prove himself.

Influences and Inspirations

Growing up, Clement looked up to players known for versatility and hustle—traits that ended up defining his own game. Derek Jeter’s leadership and steady performance inspired him to sharpen his skills as a shortstop.

Local coaches also played huge roles in his development. His high school coach helped refine his swing and fielding, pushing him to be a more complete player.

These mentors stressed the value of versatility and being a team player. Clement still carries those lessons with him.

“I always wanted to be the guy who could play anywhere on the field,” Clement once said in a team interview. That mindset started early, thanks to youth coaches who saw his adaptability.

His parents’ unwavering support—traveling for tournaments, covering equipment costs—made his baseball journey possible. That foundation set him up for a pro career.

Baseball Career and Professional Journey

Ernie Clement’s road to the majors really shows off his determination and flexibility as a utility player. From college to becoming an established MLB player, he’s shown the persistence you need to stick around at baseball’s highest level.

Draft and Minor League Development

The Cleveland Indians selected Clement in the 4th round (132nd overall) of the 2017 MLB Draft out of the University of Virginia. His strong college career made him a sought-after prospect for teams looking for versatile infielders.

In the minors, Clement climbed through Cleveland’s farm system, showing off his defensive versatility and contact-hitting approach. He played for teams like the Mahoning Valley Scrappers, Lake County Captains, and Columbus Clippers.

Clement put up solid batting averages and proved his defensive chops at several positions. Playing shortstop, second base, and third base, he became a real asset as he developed.

The COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 put a pause on his rise, but Clement kept working on his game and eventually earned his shot at the majors.

MLB Debut and Career Progression

Clement made his MLB debut with Cleveland on June 13, 2021. That was the moment he’d been dreaming about for years.

He picked up his first major league hit soon after, kicking off his career as a utility player.

Cleveland used him all over the infield early on. He started out in a part-time role but worked hard to establish himself as a reliable bench player who could step in anywhere.

His career has progressed steadily, not in flashy leaps, but by embracing his role as a versatile defender. That adaptability has kept him in the majors, even if he’s not an everyday starter.

By 2025, Clement had grown into a more confident player with improved offense to go along with his defense.

Teams Played For

Clement started his pro journey with the Cleveland organization after being drafted in 2017. He spent his early years there before new opportunities came his way.

He joined the Toronto Blue Jays, where he kept developing his skills alongside stars like Vladimir Guerrero Jr. and George Springer.

In Toronto, Clement found more chances to contribute, especially in the competitive AL East division.

His role with the Blue Jays grew as he proved he could fill in at multiple positions. The Blue Jays valued his defensive flexibility and team-first attitude.

Throughout his career, Clement has built a reputation as a hardworking, adaptable player who’ll do whatever the team needs.

Notable Achievements and Milestones

Clement isn’t a superstar, but he’s picked up some meaningful achievements along the way. His defensive versatility has helped him rack up solid fielding stats at various positions.

In the 2023 season, he had a breakthrough when he hit multiple home runs in a single game. That performance showed he’s more than just a defensive guy.

His contract with the Toronto Blue Jays worth $1,970,000 marks a big milestone, showing the team’s confidence in him.

Clement has earned respect from teammates and coaches for his work ethic and attitude. He hasn’t piled up All-Star nods or big awards, but his professionalism and flexibility make him valuable wherever he goes.

Contract Details and Free Agency Status

Ernie Clement’s financial journey in the MLB reflects his growing worth as a utility player. His contracts have shown steady progress, and he’s still building service time before free agency comes into play.

Current Contract Terms

Clement is currently on a 1-year, $1.97 million contract with the Toronto Blue Jays for the 2025 season. That’s a jump from his previous salaries and shows the Blue Jays’ belief in his value as a versatile infielder.

His contract is fully guaranteed, giving him financial security this season. Clement’s average annual salary is $1.97 million, his highest yet.

As of January 2025, Clement had 2.168 years of MLB service time, putting him in pre-arbitration for the 2025 season.

Free Agent History

Clement’s experience with free agency has been pretty limited. After Cleveland released him, he signed a minor league contract with the Toronto Blue Jays on March 14, 2023. That move ended up being a turning point.

The Blue Jays brought him up on May 23, 2023, after he played 35 games with the Triple-A Buffalo Bisons.

With his current service time, Clement won’t hit free agency until 2029. He’s set to become arbitration-eligible in 2026, which could mean another pay bump.

Qualifying Offers and Transaction History

Clement hasn’t reached the service time needed for qualifying offers, which usually go to players entering free agency. His transaction history is pretty typical for a utility infielder working to prove his value.

Before joining Toronto, Clement played for Cleveland, where he was on a contract worth $700,800 in 2022. He started with the Blue Jays on a minor league deal before earning his spot on the major league roster.

The Blue Jays’ decision to keep him with a nearly $2 million contract for 2025 shows how much they value him. As he racks up more service time, his future contracts will probably depend on his performance and ability to play multiple positions.

Net Worth and Financial Overview

Ernie Clement has built up solid financial value through his MLB career. His earnings reflect his growth as a utility player who brings versatility to every team.

Earnings from MLB Contracts

Most of Clement’s wealth comes from his baseball contracts. As of 2025, his net worth is estimated at $1,709,788.

He’s currently playing for the Toronto Blue Jays on a 1-year contract worth $1,970,000. That’s a big jump from his previous $720,000 salary.

His contract history shows steady growth as he’s proven himself as a utility guy. The Blue Jays’ investment in Clement shows they trust him to contribute at several positions.

As Clement has developed and shown consistency, his market value has climbed. That upward trend in earnings matches his experience and on-field contributions.

Sponsorships and Endorsements

Clement isn’t as big in endorsements as some MLB stars, but he’s started picking up partnerships that add to his income. These deals usually fit his image as a hardworking, versatile athlete.

He gets equipment deals with baseball manufacturers, which means free gear and some extra cash. As a Toronto Blue Jays player, he benefits from the team’s large market exposure.

He’s got a few social media partnerships, too, which bring in a bit more money as he builds his personal brand. His down-to-earth style attracts regional businesses looking for relatable athletes.

These extra income streams are small next to his MLB salary, but they could grow as his profile rises.

Economic Impact and Growth

Clement’s financial growth goes hand-in-hand with his development as a player who can handle multiple positions. The Blue Jays value more than his stats—they appreciate his roster flexibility, which helps the team manage payroll.

MLB teams have started paying more for players who can move around the field. Guys like Clement are seen as smart additions who provide insurance at multiple spots.

His contract progression shows that teams are willing to pay for versatility. That trend in baseball benefits players like Clement who can handle various defensive roles.

If he keeps improving offensively and stays flexible on defense, Clement’s earnings will probably keep rising. His spot with the Blue Jays puts him in a good place to maximize his future contracts.

Personal Life and Off-Field Interests

Off the field, Ernie Clement keeps a balanced life with close relationships, community involvement, and personal interests that reveal his character and what matters to him.

Community Involvement and Charity

Clement has built a reputation as a community-minded athlete throughout his professional career.

While he played for Cleveland and now the Toronto Blue Jays, he jumps into team charity events and youth baseball clinics pretty often.

He usually puts a lot of energy into programs that help bring youth sports to underserved communities.

Back in 2023, Clement started a baseball equipment drive in his hometown, Rochester, NY. He gathered gloves, bats, and whatever gear he could for local little leagues.

“I remember what it was like growing up and how important baseball was to me. Every kid deserves that opportunity,” Clement told the local media during the drive.

He’s also popped into children’s hospitals, trying to bring some cheer to kids dealing with tough health issues.

Teammates say Clement likes to keep his charitable work under the radar, so these visits usually don’t make headlines.

Quotes and Media Appearances

Clement doesn’t usually go for the spotlight, but he’s dropped some memorable quotes that show how he thinks about baseball and life.

When someone asked about his utility role, he said, “Versatility is my strength. I show up ready to play wherever the team needs me that day.”

On Blue Jays podcasts, Clement has shown off his sharp mind and deep love for the game.

He especially likes talking about the mental side of baseball, and he’ll mention preparation and routine more than once.

“Baseball is 90% mental. The physical part is important, but what separates good players from great ones happens between the ears,” he explained in a 2024 Toronto radio interview.

Clement doesn’t really use social media much. His profiles mostly stick to baseball highlights, not personal stuff, which just fits his low-key vibe.

Memoir and Personal Reflections

Clement hasn’t put out a formal memoir yet, but he’s opened up with some personal stories during interviews. His path from the University of Virginia all the way to the big leagues? It really gives young players hope as they deal with the grind of the minors.

He talks a lot about spending offseasons in Houston. That’s where he trains with coaches who help him sharpen his skills. Honestly, those sessions have turned into a huge part of how he grows as a pro.

“The offseason work in Houston transformed my approach at the plate. It’s where I rebuilt my swing in 2022,” Clement said in a Blue Jays team publication.

He always points to his parents as his biggest supporters, especially his dad, who coached him when he was a kid. “Dad taught me to love the process, not just the results. That mindset has carried me through the toughest stretches of my career.”