Clement needed that. The 29-year-old has been a regular starter at third base but has really struggled to start the year and is slashing just .194/.268/.250 on the season. He also now has one steal, but he will run if he can continue to get on base.

Clement did get a home run trot in today, as his fly down the left field line was initially ruled fair. However, Clement knew it was foul, and it was overturned afterwards. Clement was making a third straight start after sitting on the bench for three of the first five games. The Jays are obviously a stronger defensive team with him at third base. However, the lineup is better when it’s Will Wagner there, instead of at DH, against a righty. That will become even more apparent once Daulton Varsho returns.

Clement started at the hot corner Thursday, but the Blue Jays will have Will Wagner man third base Friday. Wagner was the DH for the opener, but Anthony Santander will be the designated hitter in this one with Nathan Lukes getting the start in center.

Having opened the spring 10-for-23 with two homers, Clement is doing his best to secure the third base gig in Toronto. Odds are that he’ll get it, though he shouldn’t prove to be a mixed-league guy while hitting at the bottom of the Blue Jays order.