Clemens is back!!!

[Pogotheostrich]

Given he’s pitched his entire career in the AL and in AL parks, why would his 3.91 ERA at age 41(!!!!) likely go down pitching in NL parks against NL hitters he’s never faced or charted?

Facing a pitcher every 9th hitter instead of a DH. I don't really like him in Houston's stadium but usually pitcher don't have the same adjustment to switching leagues that hitters do.

[Lofunzo]

Given he’s pitched his entire career in the AL and in AL parks, why would his 3.91 ERA at age 41(!!!!) likely go down pitching in NL parks against NL hitters he’s never faced or charted?

Facing a pitcher every 9th hitter instead of a DH. I don't really like him in Houston's stadium but usually pitcher don't have the same adjustment to switching leagues that hitters do.

I agree. What about the hitters that have never charted him, either?

[lesgrant]

If you know Clemens, you know that he keeps meticulous records on every hitter he's ever faced. He lives off of those numbers. Starting over again after pitching for close to 20 years in one league is significant, more significant than facing a pitcher instead of a DH and more significant than a hitter never having faced him.

But it's a waste to split hairs over ERA fractions. My main point is, and will be until Rocket proves me wrong, that he will be mediocre at best. He will not lead the Astros to the playoffs, he will not lead them to their first series victory in the playoffs. If either of those things happen, it will be due to other factors. Instead, he will sell tickets and create a buzz, as he is beginning to do.