Kody Clemens earning Silver Slugger finalist cements his remarkable career turnaround

Minnesota Twins utilityman Kody Clemens has been named an American League Silver Slugger Award finalist at second base. Clemens earned the recognition following a breakout 2026 season where he batted .239 with 27 home runs and 81 RBI across 145 games. The nomination marks a dramatic turnaround for the 30-year-old, who was designated for assignment by the Philadelphia Phillies before being traded to Minnesota for cash in April 2025.

Jackson Kruse of Puckett's Pond writes that Clemens established himself as the Twins' most valuable player in 2026 due to his power, defensive versatility, and clutch hitting. Clemens faces Chicago White Sox second baseman Chase Meidroth for the award. Looking ahead to the 2027 season, Clemens is projected to either start at second base or serve as a versatile multi-position utility player across the diamond.