Roger Clemens earns standing ovation after scoreless debut for Sugar Land Skeeters

The Sugar Land Express: Oldie Yawn?

Roger Clemens was back on the mound at age 50, striking out hitters again.

Pitching for the first time in five years, Clemens tossed 3 1-3 scoreless innings Saturday night for the Sugar Land Skeeters of the independent Atlantic League.

Clemens faced the Bridgeport Bluefish and struck out two, including former major leaguer Joey Gathright to start the game. He allowed one hit without a walk and threw 37 pitches.

Scouts from the Houston Astros and Kansas City Royals were on hand to watch Clemens’ comeback — for however long it lasts and wherever it leads.

“I think it will fuel that speculation,” Royals pro scout Ron Toenjes said after watching the performance. “I just don’t know what will happen. I don’t think anyone does.”

Sugar Land manager Gary Gaetti, a two-time All-Star third baseman with Minnesota, said he was impressed by Clemens’ outing after such a long layoff. He admitted before the game he was a bit concerned about how things would go because of Clemens’ age and time off.

“He did a great job,” Gaetti said. “He really did.”