The super-utility standout joined MLB Network on Wednesday morning.
On Tuesday morning, Toronto Blue Jays standout Ernie Clement was named as part of the roster for Team USA at the upcoming World Baseball Classic, which takes place from March 5-17.
On Wednesday, Clement spoke about the achievement on MLB Network.
He said that he got the call from Team USA skipper Mark DeRosa a few weeks ago while on his way to a Buffalo Sabres hockey game.
"...It's great news. I was pumped. I'm a big hockey guy. I grew up playing hockey. My favorite movie is 'Miracle on Ice,' so I've always wanted to rep the Red, White and Blue. I'm so psyched."
In addition to talking about his inclusion in the event, Clement also talked about his growth in Toronto, the special playoff run in 2025, his love for the city and much more.
"I'm lucky I've gotten a great opportunity the last couple of years. In 2024, our team wasn't as good, we just had some things not go our way. With some injuries, I got kind of plugged in there, and these opportunities keep coming along when you work hard and you're prepared and you're ready to roll, and it's just been awesome. It's been a great ride. I'm psyched to be in Toronto. I absolutely love the city, love the people there, and to get a chance to play for the U.S. in this is really special to me."
About Clement
Now 29 years old, Clement is a five-year veteran of the Cleveland Guardians and Blue Jays. A career .260 hitter, he continued to break out in 2025, hitting .277 with nine home runs and 50 RBIs in 157 regular season games.
He broke out even further in the playoffs, hitting .411 with nine RBIs. His 30 hits are a postseason record for a single postseason. He helped lead the Jays to an American League pennant and was a major reason why Toronto got within one win of the World Series title.
What other Blue Jays players are playing in the WBC?
So far, in addition to Clement, Vladimir Guerrero Jr. has confirmed that he will play for the Dominican Republic. Alejandro Kirk will serve as the catcher for Team Mexico as well, and it's expected that new addition Kazuma Okamoto will play for Team Japan, who he helped lead to a title in the 2023 version of the event.
Other players could participate as well, but rosters are not finalized.
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