Toronto Blue Jays infielder Ernie Clement, who set a new MLB record with 30 hits during the 2025 postseason, recently took center stage at a Buffalo Sabres home game. Clement, a Rochester native with a strong hockey background, has been closely following the Sabres’ impressive climb up the NHL standings.
Clement's connection to hockey runs deep. During his time at Brighton High School, he was a standout on the ice, racking up 124 points with 70 goals and 54 assists over 79 varsity games. Now, he’s hoping the Sabres can finally break their 14-year postseason drought.
"Ever since I attended the game, they've been on fire," Clement shared with Brian Frank of Herd Chronicles. "They were on a three-game winning streak when I was there, and they extended it to ten.
They’ve got a real shot at the playoffs this year. It was an amazing experience."
As Clement cheers on the Sabres, he's also gearing up for spring training in Florida, with the Blue Jays eyeing another World Series run. The 29-year-old shined in last year's Fall Classic, hitting .387 in a thrilling seven-game series against the powerhouse Los Angeles Dodgers.
Clement’s enthusiasm underscores the passion of the Buffalo Sabres' fanbase. Fans in Western New York have always loved hockey, but they needed a reason to rally behind their team again. This season, the Sabres have delivered.
After a slow start, Buffalo went on an electrifying 20-3-1 run, climbing above the playoff line in the Eastern Conference. Despite dropping three of their last four games before the Olympic break, they still hold the East's top wild-card spot.
The Sabres' resurgence has energized the fanbase, leading to sold-out games and attendance soaring above 90 percent. Whether it's high-profile supporters like Clement or everyday fans, Buffalo is buzzing with excitement.
With 25 games left, the Sabres have work to do, especially with the Columbus Blue Jackets on a seven-game winning streak, tightening the playoff race. Expect the KeyBank Center to be electric as fans rally to push the Sabres over the finish line.
A chance for a playoff celebration is within reach, thrilling longtime Buffalo sports fans.