UPDATE: In a stunning performance during Game 7 of the World Series on Saturday night, Ernie Clement of the Toronto Blue Jays set a new major league record with 30 hits in a single postseason. This remarkable feat surpasses the previous record of 29 hits held by Randy Arozarena, achieved during the 2020 postseason with the Tampa Bay Rays.
Clement, who made his postseason debut this year, had an electrifying night, collecting three hits and boosting his batting average to an impressive .417. His journey culminated in a record-breaking leadoff double in the eighth inning, which chased Dodgers reliever Emmet Sheehan from the mound.
This historic moment unfolded at Game 7 in Toronto, where Clement ignited the crowd with a single in the second inning, another single that contributed to a run in the sixth, and finally, the double that solidified his place in baseball history. He also extended his hitting streak to 13 games, breaking the Blue Jays’ postseason record previously held by catcher Pat Borders since 1992.
Despite Clement’s heroics, the Blue Jays narrowly lost to the Los Angeles Dodgers in a tightly contested game that went into extra innings, ending with a score tied at 4 before the Dodgers clinched the victory. Clement’s near game-winning drive to left-center field was caught at the warning track with the bases loaded, leaving fans on the edge of their seats.
Drafted by Cleveland in 2017 and later claimed by the Athletics, Clement’s journey has been tumultuous. After being designated for assignment in September 2022 and subsequently released, he signed a minor league deal with Toronto. His determination paid off as he played a career-high 157 games during the regular season, hitting .277 with 9 home runs and 50 RBIs. In 2024, he set new career highs with 12 home runs and 51 RBIs.
As fans and analysts reflect on this historic postseason performance, Clement’s legacy is already being discussed among baseball’s greats. With the World Series now concluded, eyes will turn towards what the future holds for this remarkable player and the Blue Jays as they regroup for the next season.
Next Steps: Watch for updates on how the Blue Jays plan to build on this postseason experience and the potential impact of Clement’s achievements on his career moving forward.