Blue Jays’ Clement leaves vs. Tigers after being hit in face by pitch

LAKELAND, Fla. – Toronto Blue Jays third baseman Ernie Clement sustained a lip laceration and contusion after taking a pitch from Detroit Tigers right-hander Ty Madden to the face Monday.

Clement exited the game early, walking off the field under his own power while accompanied by Blue Jays team trainer Jose Ministral and disappearing into the visitors clubhouse down the right field line at Joker Marchant Stadium. 

The 28-year-old Clement played in 139 games for the 2024 Blue Jays, offering excellent defence at third base while batting .263 with a .692 OPS and 12 home runs. He’s expected to be the Blue Jays’ primary third baseman to start the 2025 season.

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