It was an emotional day in his hometown of Brighton (Monroe County, New York), when Toronto Blue Jays star Ernie Clement was presented with a “Key to Monroe County” and his hometown officially declared November 29, 2025, “Ernie Clement Day.” The gesture not only honored a record-breaking season, but also recognized Clement’s love and perseverance — from his MiLB days to his MLB rise.
The presentation took place at the Rochester Red Wings MiLB merchandise store — where fans lined up for autographs on a weekend morning. Amidst the excitement of the fans, Monroe County Executive Adam Bello and Mayor Malik Evans both spoke up to praise Clement:
“Ernie, we are so proud of you — you have represented our hometown so well on the world stage.”
Soon after, Clement received the keys to the county along with an official proclamation: November 29 would be “Ernie Clement Day” — a day to honor the player who made Monroe County famous.
It’s no coincidence that communities from Rochester to Toronto gave Clement this honor. The 2025 season was his breakout year:
Clement just broke the MLB record with 30 hits in the postseason — the most in a single playoff season.
In 18 postseason games, he batted .411, with an OPS of .977; recorded 6 doubles, 1 triple, 1 home run, 9 RBIs, and 13 runs — a breakout that caught the attention of North America.
Clement contributed consistently throughout the regular season: hitting .277 with nine home runs and playing all over the infield, leading MLB in defensive runs saved (22).
For the Blue Jays, Clement was more than just a supporting player — he became a symbol of hard work, perseverance, and hope; for Rochester, he was a source of pride, a testament to the journey from hard work in MiLB to MLB stardom.
The moment Clement received the keys and heard his name announced for “Ernie Clement Day” sent the small Rochester arena into a frenzy. Hundreds of fans came out to greet their hometown boy; many had seen him play in rookie league, and were signing hats, gloves, and T-shirts — a heartfelt tribute.
Clement couldn’t hide his emotion:
“I’m really grateful — the Rochester community has supported me since I was in MiLB, in college, and now… They’ve been great.”
Today’s tribute to Ernie Clement is more than just a plaque: it’s Monroe County and Rochester’s way of saying they’re proud of, remember, and welcome their sons — wherever they go, wherever they go. It’s proof that with hard work, someone who seems to be playing small league football in MiLB can still reach the pinnacle of MLB — and still love their hometown.
For Clement, “Ernie Clement Day” is more than just a personal honor — it’s a reminder that spirit, effort, and loyalty are always appreciated.
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