A Milestone for a Virginia Native
Ernie Clement, the Virginia-born second baseman for the Toronto Blue Jays, has captured the imagination of baseball fans across the American League. His name topped the fan ballot, delivering the highest vote total among AL players and guaranteeing him a starting spot in the 2026 All-Star Game.
The honor marks the first time a Cavalier has led a league in All-Star votes, a milestone that places Clement alongside former Virginia star Ryan Zimmerman, who achieved the same feat in 2017. Clement’s rise reflects a season filled with consistent performance and growing recognition.
Statistically, Clement sits near the top of several key offensive categories. He leads the AL with 20 doubles and boasts a .294 batting average, ranking third in the league behind Yandy Diaz and Yordan Alvarez. His 88 hits also place him third, while his 109.7‑mile per hour exit velocity ranks ninth among players with at least 250 at‑bats.
Beyond the numbers, Clement’s schedule has been among the toughest in the majors, according to the MLB Relative Power Index. The Blue Jays have faced a demanding slate of opponents, a factor that makes his production even more impressive. He also added a historic note to his résumé by recording 30 postseason hits in 2025, a record that underscores his clutch ability.
The All-Star Game itself will be held in Philadelphia on July 14. Fan voting for the finalists opens on June 29 and closes on June 30, after which the nine position players will be finalized through online ballots on MLB platforms. Clement’s nomination adds a Virginia flavor to a game that traditionally showcases the sport’s brightest stars.