November 30th, 2025
Clement became first Rochester-area player to appear in World Series since 1954
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Monroe County Executive Adam Bello today presented a Key to the County to Brighton native Ernie Clement, following his remarkable performance in the 2025 World Series. Clement captivated fans with his playoff performance, setting a major-league record for most hits in a single postseason with 30. He helped fuel the Toronto Blue Jays October success, finishing just one win short of a World Series championship.
“Seeing Ernie Clement shine on baseball’s biggest stage filled the Rochester community with immense pride, proving that dedication can lead anyone from school athletics to the highest level of their sport. His performance not only resulted in personal achievement but also created a powerful moment of shared triumph for local sports fans,” said County Executive Bello. “Ernie’s success offers an exciting, tangible connection for aspiring young athletes, demonstrating that the path from local fields to the big leagues is achievable, and inspiring them to follow in his footsteps.”
Clement was a standout at Brighton High School and was named the Democrat & Chronicle’s All-Greater Rochester Player of the Decade 2010-19. He went on to help lead the University of Virginia to victory in the 2015 College World Series and was named Most Valuable Player of the 2016 Cape Cod League. He played in the major leagues with Cleveland and Oakland before joining the Toronto Blue Jays in 2023.
Clement became the first Rochester-area native to appear in the World Series since Johnny Antonelli pitched for the New York Giants in the 1954 Series.
