Posted at 6:38 a.m., Tuesday, May 15, 2007
Clemens throws at Yankees' minor league complex
Associated Press
TAMPA, Fla. — Roger Clemens threw 71 pitches during his first bullpen session today at the New York Yankees' minor league complex.Barring any problems, Clemens is scheduled to make his first minor league start Friday for Class-A Tampa and could be pitching for the Yankees during the last week of May or first few days of June.
Clemens threw his split-finger, slider and two-seam and four-seam fastballs.
"He was on the money," said Yankees minor leaguer James LaSala, who caught Clemens. "Great stuff. Great command."
Clemens also discussed mechanics with several pitchers, including promising rookie right-hander Phil Hughes, Jeff Karstens and minor leaguer Joba Chamberlain, while working on the mound.
The seven-time Cy Young Award winner started his workout by jogging through the area around the complex. He also took part in fielding drills during his hour on the field.
It has not been determined whether Clemens will make two or three minor league starts before joining the Yankees' rotation. Clemens, who agreed to a $28,000,022, one-year contract on May 6, worked out last week in Lexington, Ky., where his son plays for a Houston Astros minor league club.
When he rejoined the Astros last year, Clemens agreed to a contract on May 31, made three minor league starts and returned to the majors on June 22.
