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Why tandem of Clement, Gimenez could be impactful for Blue Jays

Toronto Blue Jays infielder Andres Gimenez (0) and infielder Ernie Clement (22). Jonathan Dyer-Imagn Images

Why defensive tandem of Ernie Clement, Andres Gimenez could be impactful for Blue Jays

By Vanessa Serrao | Last updated Mar 21, 2026 12:22 PM ET

The Toronto Blue Jays have a top-notch defensive middle-infield tandem with Andres Gimenez at shortstop and Ernie Clement at second base this season.

Clement shifted around the infield last season between second and third base. He's been the Blue Jays' utility infielder until this season. He will be the primary second baseman, and Gimenez will slide over to shortstop following the loss of Bo Bichette to free agency.

They are expected to bring elite glove work and high-energy play. Gimenez is projected to be the everyday shortstop, illustrating top-tier defense in the 97th percentile. While his offense was inconsistent in 2025, his 3.8 fWAR in 2023 showcases how he can return to form with some adjustments at the plate.

They are expected to be one of the top defensive middle-infield dynamic duos in MLB. Clement has progressed as a player since 2023 and has the potential to be a high-caliber defender due to his advanced defensive metrics.

Clement was a Gold Glove finalist twice in 2024-2025, and Gimenez holds three AL Gold Gloves at second base (2022-2024). In 2024, he led the majors with 21 Outs Above Average (OAA).

What Ernie Clement has to offer

Clement tied for the MLB lead with 2.9 defensive WAR and tied for the MLB lead with 22 Defensive Runs Saved (DRS) in 2025. He also put up a strong performance in turning ground balls into outs, making him stand tall with an infield skillset.

All eyes will be on Clement to have a strong season while manning second base, and he is often also praised for his contact skills.

Clement set career highs last season, including a 30-hit performance in the 2025 postseason, a 13-game hitting streak in the postseason, recording 35 doubles, and racking up five hits on Aug. 4.

Andres Gimenez in position to bounce back

With Giménez shifting to shortstop, he is expected to improve his offense, which has been flat. As a defensive gem, though, he has hitting potential.

The glorified Gold Glover is in a strong position to be a bounce-back candidate this season following injuries that impacted his 2025 season. According to The Toronto Star's Mike Wilner, Gimenez knows he has to do better.

Andrés Giménez shows off his vertical #WorldBaseballClassic pic.twitter.com/nB95Jl93bP
— World Baseball Classic (@WBCBaseball) March 6, 2026

If he can remain healthy and improve his batting average to .250 while stealing 20 or more bases, his bat would become more elite. Gimenez hit a mere .210 across 101 games following an ankle injury and playing through it.

But he presented himself as a difference-maker in the postseason, where he collected four hits and two home runs with 12 RBI across 18 games.

He also emphasized his impact in high-leverage situations, going 7-for-14 with 11 RBI with runners in scoring position (RISP). His home-run in Game 3 of the ALCS against the Seattle Mariners was clutch.

Ernie Clement, Andres Gimenez could make difference for Blue Jays

Both Clement and Gimenez have a lot to offer to the team. Gimenez provides Gold Glove-caliber defense and has good range and quick hands, makes difficult plays and possesses speed on the base paths, whereas Clement offers a high-contact bat and versatile play.

Overall, it conjures a strong pairing up the middle and makes up for the lack of defense Bichette had to offer.

Vanessa Serrao

Serrao is a freelance baseball writer who has covered all MLB teams, with particular expertise on the Toronto Blue Jays. She is a member of the Internet Baseball Writers Association of America.

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