Second option: The Blue Jays might look elsewhere

Since 2024, Ernie Clement has earned his stripes with the Toronto Blue Jays through sheer hard work and discipline. After turning heads during the 2025 playoffs—when he set a record for hits—everyone thought his spot in the Jays' lineup was secure.

His start to the 2026 season seemed to confirm all of that, but what followed hasn't gone his way. In fact, Ross Atkins, the team's general manager, stated that Clement will have to earn his spot heading into next season.

Having failed to perform at a high level—both offensively and defensively—during the second half of the season, Clement has gotten himself into a bit of trouble. No player—unless he's been an established star for several seasons already—can claim to have a guaranteed spot in Major League Baseball. Every athlete must compete every day to prove his worth.

With the Blue Jays not completely committed to starting Ernie Clement at second base in 2027, @NickAshbourne looks at Toronto's options at the position for next season. https://t.co/88PYCXc2bt

— Sportsnet (@Sportsnet) October 2, 2026

Looking back at the Jays' 2026 season, everyone needs to take a hard look in the mirror and ask themselves how they could have done more to help the team perform better as a whole. Ernie Clement is no exception. His track record in the major leagues isn't substantial enough to guarantee him a spot at second base.

As a result, the 30-year-old could face competition from within the organization—and even from outside—during the next spring training camp in the spring of 2027.

Josh Smith and Charles McAdoo, two players who joined the roster midseason, could be breathing down Clement's neck in an effort to take his spot. Both have experience at that position and have proven they can hold their own on offense.

There's also the possibility that the Jays' front office, led by Ross Atkins, could turn to the free-agent market to address what has become a weakness in the second half of the season.

Names like Jazz Chisholm Jr., Brandon Lowe, and Luis Arraez could strengthen that side of the infield, allowing Clement to take on a different role within the lineup. All three players mentioned have more experience than he does and have proven their value. One thing is certain: Chisholm Jr. would certainly make an impression on everyone in the organization and in the stands.

If Atkins were truly determined to find the right solution at second base, he could also make a trade with another team—pulling a rabbit out of his hat, so to speak. However, he would likely have to dip into his reserves or trade an established player to achieve his goal.

Three names could significantly improve the situation: Ketel Marte, Zach Neto, and C.J. Abrams. Of the three, only Marte is a natural second baseman; the other two—who are identified as shortstops—could switch positions. Marte made headlines this season by refusing to report for a game in Boston.

In short, there is no shortage of solutions to improve the team at a position that needs it, but Ernie Clement hasn't been completely ruled out of the equation just yet.

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