Four Ex-Cleveland Guardians Propel Toronto Blue Jays to ALCS Stage
The Toronto Blue Jays have reached the American League Championship Series (ALCS) for the first time since 2016. This milestone comes after a successful 2025 season, where they secured the top seed in the league and defeated the New York Yankees in the Division Series. A notable aspect of this achievement is the presence of four former players from the Cleveland Guardians contributing to Toronto’s success.
Former Guardians Making an Impact
The players from Cleveland are Ernie Clement, Myles Straw, Andres Gimenez, and Shane Bieber. Each has played a significant role in the Blue Jays’ journey to the ALCS.
Ernie Clement’s Career Year
- Drafted by Cleveland in the fourth round in 2017
- Major league debut in 2021
- Spent time as a utility infielder with a .214 batting average in two years
- Designated for assignment in 2022
- In 2025, achieved a career-high 4.3 WAR
- In the ALDS, performed exceptionally well, going 9-for-14 with one home run and five RBIs
Myles Straw’s Resurgence
- Joined Cleveland in 2021 through a trade
- Signed a five-year, $25 million contract in 2022
- Batted .240 across four seasons in Cleveland
- Traded to Toronto before the current season
- Despite limited opportunities in the ALDS, contributed a crucial RBI in Game 4 against the Yankees
Andres Gimenez’s Challenges
- Sought after in the Francisco Lindor trade of 2020
- Three-time Gold Glove winner at second base while with Cleveland
- Batted .261 during four seasons with the Guardians
- Traded to Toronto in the offseason
- Has faced difficulties in 2025, hitting just .197 in the second half
Shane Bieber’s Stellar Career
- Spent seven seasons with Cleveland
- Won the Cy Young Award and secured a pitching triple crown
- Two-time All-Star, MVP of the 2019 All-Star Game
- Moved to Toronto mid-season with a record of 4-2 and a 3.57 ERA
- His performance in Game 3 of the ALDS was less than ideal, but he remains a vital asset for the upcoming ALCS
Blue Jays’ Future Prospects
With the Blue Jays boasting several former Cleveland players, there is a unique narrative unfolding. Fans are left to ponder what might have been had these players remained with Cleveland. As the Blue Jays move forward in the playoffs, supporters hope for their ultimate victory in this year’s ALCS and beyond.
