Toronto Blue Jays third baseman Ernie Clement in serious trouble after latest signing

ESPN insider Jeff Passan reported today that Toronto and Okamoto are in agreement on a free agent contract as his posting was coming to an end tomorrow.

Okamoto, 29, spent his entire NPB career with the Yomiuri Giants and entered MLB talks through the posting system. MLB.com previously outlined that a signing triggers a release fee to Yomiuri based on the guaranteed value of the contract.

Okamoto had a solid stat line in 2025 which included a .327 average and a .598 slugging percentage in 69 games which also included a total of 15 home runs.

Early reaction around the club has centered on how quickly the infield picture tightens for everyday jobs.

For Toronto's offense, adding a right-handed corner bat creates a cleaner path to lengthening the middle of the order. Okamoto has also played first base in Japan, which can open more matchup options around Vladimir Guerrero Jr.

The ripple lands hardest on Ernie Clement because he entered the winter as the practical starting option at third. FanGraphs' 2026 Blue Jays depth chart and ESPN's depth chart both list Clement among Toronto's third-base options heading into 2026.

Clement's value is versatility, not a locked position, and that becomes the pivot point after this signing. MLB.com wrote last spring that Clement could open a season at third, but that the spot could shift with performance and roster needs.

If Okamoto is ready to handle regular innings at third, Clement's playing time likely funnels toward a utility role across second, short, and third. That role can still matter on a good roster, but it usually comes with fewer guaranteed starts.

This could also mean that the Blue Jays could turn and look toward shopping Clement around but that really depends on if Toronto ends up bringing back Bo Bichette.

Clement is also entering another important contract phase, since Toronto tendered him as an arbitration-eligible player this winter. That status does not protect a lineup spot, and it can make roster decisions feel colder once camp battles start.

Toronto's next milestone is the official announcement and contract structure, then the spring training reps that settle the depth chart. Until then, Okamoto's arrival has already shifted the pressure point directly onto Clement's job description.

Source: NPB star Kazuma Okamoto, Blue Jays agree to contract