Houston Astros: Top 30 players in franchise history

22. Roger Clemens, P, 2004 – 2006

Roger Clemens became the second legendary pitcher to eventually make his way to his hometown Houston Astros at some point in his career. The other, I imagine you know the name, is also on this list. Clemens had a phenomenal three-year stretch pitching in his backyard but the fact that it only lasted three years prevents him from climbing higher.

Clemens won his seventh and final Cy Young award in his first year as an Astro in his age 41 season. During those three years, Clemens 38 games, had a 2.40 ERA, 1.07 WHIP, and struck out over 500 batters. You’ll be hard pressed to find a better three-game stretch, let alone by a 40+ year old.

Clemens entire legacy has ultimately been marred by his PED use, as shown by not being able to enter the Hall of Fame just yet. I suspect he will eventually get in before his time on the ballot is up. His three seasons as Astro helps his case a great deal as not many people can pitch into their 40s, let alone do it the way Clemens did.

The homecoming Clemens had was a wonderful one. He likely won’t be remembered as an Astro by many, including those in Houston but that doesn’t mitigate his impact on this team. He was a part of two teams that went to the NLCS and won one of them. He also helped the team reach their first World Series in team history.