Infielder Ernie Clement played for the Cleveland Guardians in 2021 and 2022.
He was waived by the Guards in September 2022.
The Oakland Athletics claimed him, and that’s when he got to know then-catcher Stephen Vogt.
Vogt, as you know, was announced as the new Guardians manager this week.
Twitter user @reflog_18 posted a video of Vogt hitting a home run in an A’s uniform in what would be the final at-bat of a very solid 10-year career in the majors.
Another user noted that Clement was one of the players greeting Vogt after the homer, one that he truly enjoyed while trotting around the bases.
Clement was then questioned about Vogt’s hiring, and he had a cool response while supporting his former teammate.
Clement replied with three words.
It doesn’t seem like a lot, but they were very significant: “best hire ever”.
Best hire ever
— Ernie Clement (@Ernieclem) November 6, 2023
Vogt is universally loved around the league.
He played for several teams and had a lot of friends, showing a fun-loving personality and endless creativity.
However, he is also regarded for his baseball knowledge.
People skills plus baseball knowledge often brings good results, and Cleveland is willing to try Vogt and his fresh thoughts and ideas.
He accumulated some experience in the coaching world this past season, acting as the Seattle Mariners bullpen and quality control coach.
The hiring of Vogt has some classic “boom or bust” potential, but players love and respect him.
Clement’s response should tell you everything you need to know about how Vogt gets along with players.
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