As the Toronto Blue Jays gear up for another thrilling season, fresh off a near World Series triumph, there's no shortage of star power to keep fans on the edge of their seats. With some high-profile additions in the offseason, including Kevin Gausman finally getting his Opening Day start and Kazuma Okamoto making his MLB debut, the excitement is palpable. And let's not forget Vladimir Guerrero Jr., who's been on a tear across the playoffs, spring training, and the World Baseball Classic.
Yet, amidst this constellation of talent, all eyes might just be on someone unexpected: Ernie Clement. He's stepping into a significant role, replacing Bo Bichette, whose absence is undoubtedly felt.
Bichette's dynamic presence at the top of the lineup was key to the Blue Jays' offensive success last year. However, the team proved they could thrive without him during their impressive postseason run, and Clement's defensive prowess offers a valuable upgrade.
Clement's rise is a testament to his skill and determination. Last season, he embraced full-time playing duties, posting a solid .277/.313/.398 line with a 98 wRC+.
His combination of stellar defense, sharp baserunning, and elite contact skills has made him a valuable asset, contributing 5.3 fWAR over the past two seasons. For context, that's a notable edge over Bichette's 4.1 fWAR in a similar timeframe.
His experience with Team USA in the World Baseball Classic further bolstered his confidence, following a record-setting postseason. While he won't need to replicate Bichette's role at the top of the lineup, anything close to the .977 OPS Clement showcased in October would be a tremendous boost for the team.
So, as the Blue Jays face the Athletics on March 27, keep an eye on Clement. Amidst a roster brimming with stars, he might just be the one to make the biggest splash.