Update on Ernie Clement's injury

The Blue Jays third baseman left the game after being struck in the face by a pitch from Tigers reliever Ty Madden. Addison Barger entered as a pinch runner after Clements departure.

The Blue Jays later announced that Clement suffered a lip laceration and contusion and is considered day-to-day. All things considered, the outcome could have been much worse.

Although clearly in pain, Clement was able to walk off the field under his own power before being formally removed from the game.

The good news is that he passed concussion protocols and does not appear to have suffered any serious head injury.

It's a positive development after an otherwise frightening moment for the Blue Jays. Clement, a Gold Glove finalist in 2024, is expected to be the team's everyday third baseman to start the season.

Clement will likely be sidelined for at least a couple of days. In his absence, the Blue Jays could turn to Barger, Orelvis Martinez, Will Wagner, or even Vladimir Guerrero Jr. to cover third base.

With the Blue Jays off on Tuesday, there's a slim chance Clement could be ready for Wednesday's game against the Pirates, though the more likely scenario is that the team gives him a few days off to ensure there are no lingering effects and his lip is fully healed.