Roger, over and out … and back again

Roger Clemens with the Yankees (Associated Press photo)

Needing only seven victories to reach 300 for his career, Roger Clemens 23 years ago today signs a one-year, $10.1 million contract to return to the New York Yankees.

“My feeling,” the 40-year-old Clemens says at the time, “is right now I don’t anticipate playing past this year. I plan on going out the right way – like I always have, full throttle.”

Roger Clemens after joining the Astros in 2004

Oh, Clemens gets those seven victories – and more – in 2003 as he goes 17-9 for the Yankees to run his career record to 310-160.

So, there is no retirement.

At least not yet as Clemens, a free agent after his “last” season with the Yankees, then goes home to Texas and joins the Houston Astros 2004.

He stays there for three more seasons before returning to the Yankees in 2007 and, yes, this time finally retiring at the age of 45.

Clemens’ record over his last four seasons is 44-24, pushing his career totals to 354-184 with a record seven Cy Young Awards.

Seemingly more than enough to put Clemens in the Hall of Fame, but voters put that honor on hold as they continue to debate Clemens’ alleged use of illegal pharmaceuticals to bolster his career.

“I’m angry that what I’ve done for the game of baseball … that I don’t get the benefit of the doubt,” Clemens says during a 2008 interview with 60 Minutes.

“That stuff that’s being said, it’s ridiculous. It’s hogwash for people to even assume this.”

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