Blue Jays All-Star Ernie Clement explains why he chose Toronto over New York

In another world or nightmare, Toronto Blue Jays fan favourite Ernie Clement could have been wearing New York Yankees pinstripes instead of being Toronto's All-Star second baseman.

In an interview with Sportsnet's Shi Davidi, Clement opened up about how he had a chance to sign with the Yankees, but ultimately chose Toronto, which, now looking back, completely changed his career.

Clement had a difficult start to his MLB career, being waived by both the Cleveland Guardians and the Athletics within six months. Despite the setbacks, Toronto and New York were reportedly two of the four teams interested in his potential.

Being from Rochester, N.Y., the Yankees were Clement's favourite team growing up. But Toronto brought something different to the table: an opportunity to play close to home with the Blue Jays' Triple-A affiliate located in Buffalo.

After being waived by the Athletics in 2023, Ernie Clement signed a minor league contract with the Toronto Blue Jays. (Kevin Sousa/Imagn Images)

Clement told Davidi that an opportunity to play close to home was exactly what he needed at that particular point in his career.

The Yankees reportedly offered Clement more money at the time, but he and his agent, Steve Skrinar, believed the Blue Jays provided him with a better pathway back to the major leagues.

It turned out to be the right decision.

In four seasons with Toronto, Clement has gone from a bench utility player to an everyday starter at second base. Last postseason, he set an MLB record for the most hits in a single postseason with 30, before representing the U.S. at the 2026 World Baseball Classic and now becoming an American League All-Star.

Skip with his stars 🌟 #AllStarGame pic.twitter.com/1gM2QyD5Qh

— Toronto Blue Jays (@BlueJays) July 13, 2026

Clement is one of four Blue Jays taking part in Tuesday's MLB All-Star Game in Philadelphia. He'll be joined by manager John Schneider, starting pitcher Dylan Cease, and closer Louis Varland.