Clemens to start again for Skeeters on Sept. 7

[August 30, 2012]  HOUSTON (AP) -- Roger Clemens plans to make a second start for the Sugar Land Skeeters of the independent Atlantic League on Sept. 7.

His agent, Randy Hendricks, says in an email that it's his "understanding" that Clemens will pitch again for the Skeeters against the Long Island Ducks. The news was first reported by Houston television station KRIV and the Houston Chronicle.

Pitching for the first time in five years, the 50-year-old Clemens tossed 3 1-3 scoreless innings Saturday night against the Bridgeport Bluefish and struck out two.

Some believe the seven-time Cy Young Award winner's work with the Skeeters is the first step in a return to the majors. But he has said he isn't thinking about a big league comeback yet.

For the first time, Clemens is set to appear on the Hall of Fame ballot going out to voters late this year. If he plays in another major league game, the timetable would be pushed back five years.

The Rocket last pitched in the majors for the New York Yankees in 2007.

Two months ago, he was acquitted of charges he lied to Congress when he denied using performance-enhancing drugs.

[Associated Press; By KRISTIE RIEKEN]

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