This season, so far, has been what Toronto Blue Jays fans have yearned for, and two players in particular have stood out enough to earn at least another season with the team. Aside from the obvious player, Bo Bichette, who will be a free agent in the offseason, Ernie Clement and Daulton Varsho are also worthy of contract extensions with the Blue Jays.
Both have provided solid contributions this season at the plate and in the field. Clement is a player who has really progressed since his first season in 2023. Clement has demonstrated how he’s a valuable asset to the team through his infield utility role. Meanwhile, Varsho provides value through his power hitting and stellar defense.
Varsho and Clement Are Deserving of Contract Extensions with Blue Jays
Clement in 2025
Clement has shown how he can excel at several different positions, including second and third base. He had to play second base when Andrés Giménez was on the injured list earlier this season, and filled in nicely.
He made plays reminiscent of the Gold Glove. But let’s not forget that Clement was a finalist for the Gold Glove Award at third base last season. Offensively, he provides speed and urgency, and while he and Nathan Lukes have cooled down offensively, they find ways to get on base.
Swing Batter Batter
Clement’s squared up rate, strikeout rate, and whiff rate have all been impressive. His squared up rate has been the most appealing offensive metric that ranks in the 98th percentile at 38.1 %. His whiff rate (13.9%) and strikeout rate (11.3 %) both rank in the 94th percentile. Clement’s sprint speed of 28.7 mph has also stood out. Clement has the strong ability to outrun balls that hit the ground, making him a steady all-around player.
4 of Ernie Clement’s 9 Home Runs this season have come on the first pitch pic.twitter.com/oWIRMVf8Qd
— Sportsnet Stats (@SNstats) August 13, 2025
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When he has succeeded at the plate this season, it is a result of his top-of-the-line bat-to-ball skills, speed, and his newfound talent of hitting left-handed pitching. This has led to his improved batting average, as well as providing clutch hits. He’s able to hit the ball all over and makes hard contact with his high squared-up percentage.
He has also shown the ability to drive in runs. His offensive contributions fit well with the Blue Jays’ goals as a team. Overall, his newfound power with his solid offensive foundation is reason enough to offer him a contract extension.
Varshow Playing Tall
Varsho continues to shine by hitting for power. Despite missing time this season, his 14 bombs have shown how he can still contribute at the plate. On Friday against the Miami Marlins, he recorded an RBI double and a home run as the Blue Jays won 5-2.
23 of Daulton Varsho’s 34 hits this season have gone for extra bases.
That’s 68%.
He’s slugging .601 as a Gold Glove CF.
Absurd stuff.
— VOT6 (@JaysViews) August 23, 2025
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Varsho has made adjustments at the plate with his batting stance, and with a new shoulder, he’s looking like the player that the Blue Jays traded for. Varsho has been on a tear, and 23 of his 34 hits this season have been extra bases, a rate of 68%. In addition, he’s slugging .601 as a Gold Glover. Varsho has already expressed his interest in remaining with the Blue Jays, and as he’s currently on a one-year deal, it wouldn’t hurt for Toronto to stick with that next season.
Main Photo Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports
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