Toronto Blue Jays make early off season statement, lock In two stars ahead of arbitration

Toronto Blue Jays have made a bold early offseason move by securing contracts with two key players, Ernie Clement and Daulton Varsho, ahead of arbitration, signaling their commitment to a competitive 2026 campaign.

Ernie Clement agrees to $4.6 million deal

Toronto has reached a $4.6 million agreement with Ernie Clement, according to FanSided’s Robert Murray. The 30-year-old infielder enjoyed a standout 2025 season, appearing in 157 games and posting 4.3 Wins Above Replacement (WAR).

Clement’s offensive output played a critical role in Toronto Blue Jays’ postseason run. He finished the year with a .277 batting average, 151 hits, nine home runs, and 50 RBIs, maintaining a .711 OPS.

His performance in the playoffs was historic, as he amassed 30 hits in 18 games, a major league record, with a .416 batting average, one home run, nine RBIs, and a .977 OPS.

Originally drafted by the Cleveland Guardians in 2017, Clement made his MLB debut in 2021 and joined Toronto before the 2023 season after brief stints with other teams.

He remains under the Blue Jays’ control through 2028, providing long-term stability in the infield.

Daulton Varsho secures $10.75 million contract

Toronto Blue Jays also locked in Daulton Varsho for $10.75 million, as reported by Joel Sherman of The New York Post. Varsho, 30, faced injury challenges in 2025, playing only 71 games, but still managed 58 hits, 20 home runs, and 55 RBIs, posting an .833 OPS.

Defensively, Varsho remains an asset, having earned a Gold Glove in 2024. During the playoffs, he contributed in 18 games, recording 17 hits, three home runs, 10 RBIs, and a .667 OPS.

A native of Marshfield, Wisconsin, Varsho began his career with the Arizona Diamondbacks before joining Toronto in 2023 in a trade involving Lourdes Gurriel Jr. and Gabriel Moreno.

With free agency approaching in 2027, this contract is key for both Varsho and the Blue Jays’ long-term plans.

Toronto Blue Jays send a strong message

By resolving these arbitration cases early, Toronto has secured two foundational players and avoided potential offseason distractions.

Locking in Clement and Varsho provides roster stability, allowing Toronto Blue Jays to focus on additional reinforcements ahead of 2026.

These moves underline the team’s intent to contend at the highest level and build on last season’s postseason momentum.