On February 13, 2008, legendary Texas pitcher Roger “Rocket” Clemens stepped into a congressional hearing that would change his life forever. Appearing before a bipartisan U.S. House committee investigating steroid use in baseball, the former Spring Woods High School star found himself at the center of a national controversy.
During intense questioning, Clemens, appearing with former Yankee trainer Brian McNamee, strongly denied multiple allegations. He rejected claims that he had used steroids or human growth hormone (HGH), disputed discussions about performance-enhancing drugs at José Canseco’s house, and insisted his injections were only B-12 and lidocaine. His testimony directly contradicted statements made by his and teammate Andy Pettitte.
The aftermath was swift and severe. Clemens was widely disbelieved. Congress, citing numerous inconsistencies and conflicting evidence, referred the case to the Justice Department. By 2010, Clemens faced six serious charges, including perjury, making false statements, and obstruction of Congress. His legal battle stretched across two trials – the first ending in mistrial due to prosecutorial misconduct. Finally, in June 2012, a jury found him not guilty on all counts.
Before the controversy, Clemens had built an extraordinary Texas baseball legacy. After dominating at Houston’s Spring Woods High School, he chose education over immediate professional offers. His path led through San Jacinto Junior College to the University of Texas at Austin, where he became one of college baseball’s most dominant pitchers. His 25-7 record included two All-American selections, an
d he led the Longhorns to glory in the 1983 College World Series. His impact on UT baseball was so profound that the university made history by retiring his number – the first time they’d ever honored a player this way. He also pitched for his hometown Houston Astros toward the end of his career.
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