Houston CRE

Would it be wise for the Astros to keep their distance from Roger Clemens?

Is it wise for them to allow him to attend spring training? The Houston Chronicle even reported there is a possibility he could pitch for the Astros this season.

Public Comments

1. I see no problem with Clemens helping with the young pitching prospects but it might be another story if he decides he would like to pitch.
2. Clearly, Clemens continues to get support from his home base, do not underestimate that factor. Enough people still support him, and that was apparent during the congressional hearings when one party only attacked McNamee and practically worshipped the great Rocket. Especially in Texas, he is still Roger Clemens. The Astros may not want to upset the locals by dismissing him, so it's going to be a gamble for them either way. Clemens is likely not welcomed anywhere else. If he actually plays, it'll be similar to the Bonds situation when he was with SF. He would be cheered at home and booed on the road, even in New York, especially in New York.
3. There's no downside for the Astros. They have a personal services contract with him anyway, it's his home, and his oldest son plays down on the farm. Then factor in that Clemens is still Texas royalty. There's no losses for the Astros to cut. Yeah, some controversy will follow him around, but the noise will be at a manageable level.
4. I think Clemens can be an influential mentor to some of the young guys in the clubhouse and help them out. Sure, he allegedly took steroids and is in court but none of that should be 100% believed until he is proven guilty.I personally think of Roger as an outstanding individual with a hall of fame kind of career. Many baseball players want to play baseball forever if they could.They have the young heart and soul in them, just sometimes you gotta sit down and take a breather. Im not too sure that he would pitch again this season with his age and point in his life.He has over 20 yrs in major league service so he might just say ...well i had a great fun career and now its time for me to retire and just relax. Well hope it helps =)
5. No and I doubt it.
6. Yes because you don't think you could trust him.
7. I'm from Houston and Clemens is no longer viewed as royalty, heroic, or iconic here in the Bayou City. Just because you live in Houston or Texas doesn't mean that you blindly support a liar like Clemens and a cheater like Pettitte. I think the Astros should waive Kolby Clemens and release Roger from his personal service contract. I wouldn't allow Roger Clemens anywhere near my Minor Leaguers if I was owner Drayton McLane.