Ernie Clement of the Toronto Blue Jays made history in Game 7 of the World Series by securing three hits, setting a new MLB record with 30 hits in a single post-season. This accomplishment surpassed the previous record held by Randy Arozarena of the Tampa Bay Rays, who achieved 29 hits during the 2020 playoffs as a rookie.
During the playoffs, Tampa Bay participated in 20 games across four rounds after a shortened regular season due to the pandemic. In contrast, Toronto played 18 games in three playoff rounds this season. Despite their impressive performances, both teams ultimately fell to the Los Angeles Dodgers in the World Series.
Clement’s remarkable performance in Game 7 included a single in the second inning, another single with a run scored in the sixth, and a record-breaking leadoff double in the eighth, causing Dodgers reliever Emmet Sheehan to exit the game. Additionally, Clement extended his hitting streak to 13 games, setting a new Blue Jays post-season record. Previously, Pat Borders held a 12-game hitting streak during the 1992 World Series, where he was named MVP against Atlanta.
In his debut post-season appearance, Clement boasted a batting average of .411, with 30 hits out of 73 at-bats, along with one home run and nine RBIs. Despite going 3-for-5 in Game 7, the Blue Jays suffered a 5-4 loss in 11 innings. Clement came close to clinching the title for Toronto in the ninth inning, hitting a deep drive to left-center, but the ball was caught on the warning track with the bases loaded, leading to extra innings with the score tied at 4-4.
Reflecting on the intense game, Clement expressed his emotions, stating, “I’ve been crying for like probably for an hour. I thought I was done with the tears.” Drafted by Cleveland in 2017, Clement faced challenges, being designated for assignment in September 2022 and ultimately finding his way to the Blue Jays after stints with other teams.
During the 2025 regular season, Clement showcased his versatility by playing in 157 games across all four infield positions, achieving a .277 batting average with nine home runs and 50 RBIs. Notably, in 2024, he set personal bests with 12 home runs and 51 RBIs while playing for the Blue Jays.
