Scouting grades: Hit: 55 | Power: 20 | Run: 60 | Arm: 50 | Field: 50 | Overall: 40
Clement had a decorated college career, winning the College World Series as a Virginia freshman in 2015, earning Cape Cod League MVP honors in 2016 and leading NCAA Division I in at-bats per strikeout (36.3) in 2017. His first two seasons in pro ball were similar to his three with the Cavaliers, as he furthered his reputation as a contact hitter and as a player who does the little things to help his team win. He reached Double-A 14 months after signing as a fourth-round pick.
Clement's simple approach and excellent hand-eye coordination allow him to put the bat on the ball almost at will. His compact, flat right-handed swing isn't designed for power and he focuses on getting on base rather than worrying about home runs. He has shown more patience as a pro than he did in college and has the plus speed to be a basestealer if he can improve his reads and jumps.
With quick hands and good instincts, Clement may be able to stay at shortstop. His arm is merely average, however, so he profiles better defensively at second base. He also started at center field for Virginia, and his versatility could help him claim a job as a utilityman if he doesn't provide enough impact with the bat to be an everyday player. Transactions Team Date Transaction 01/23/2020 Cleveland Indians invited non-roster SS Ernie Clement to spring training. 08/31/2019 SS Ernie Clement assigned to Columbus Clippers from Akron RubberDucks. 08/28/2019 SS Ernie Clement assigned to Mesa Solar Sox. 05/09/2019 Akron RubberDucks activated SS Ernie Clement from the 7-day injured list. 04/18/2019 Akron RubberDucks placed SS Ernie Clement on the 7-day injured list retroactive to April 16, 2019. Right adductor strain. 02/14/2019 Cleveland Indians invited non-roster SS Ernie Clement to spring training. 08/14/2018 SS Ernie Clement assigned to Akron RubberDucks from Lynchburg Hillcats. 08/09/2018 Lynchburg Hillcats activated SS Ernie Clement from the 7-day disabled list. 07/27/2018 Lynchburg Hillcats placed SS Ernie Clement on the 7-day disabled list. 06/23/2018 SS Ernie Clement assigned to Lynchburg Hillcats from Lake County Captains. 05/29/2018 Lake County Captains activated SS Ernie Clement from the 7-day disabled list. 05/21/2018 Lake County Captains placed SS Ernie Clement on the 7-day disabled list. 04/03/2018 SS Ernie Clement assigned to Lake County Captains from Mahoning Valley Scrappers. 06/23/2017 SS Ernie Clement assigned to Mahoning Valley Scrappers. 06/22/2017 Cleveland Indians signed 2B Ernie Clement.
