U.S. President Donald Trump made an announcement on Wednesday evening, revealing his plan to present retired MLB pitcher Roger Clemens with the Presidential Medal of Freedom. Trump lauded Clemens as “potentially the greatest pitcher in history,” a seven-time Cy Young Award winner. Speaking at a rally in San Antonio, Trump reiterated his call for Clemens to be included in the Baseball Hall of Fame. Clemens, known as “The Rocket,” has not yet received this recognition due to suspicions of steroid use during his 24-year career with teams like the Boston Red Sox, Toronto Blue Jays, New York Yankees, and Houston Astros.
During his speech, Trump emphasized the significance of the Presidential Medal of Freedom, describing it as one of the highest honors, alongside the Congressional Medal of Honor. Trump expressed his belief that Clemens deserved this recognition and predicted his eventual induction into the Hall of Fame. He highlighted the medal as a prestigious accolade, surpassing the Hall of Fame distinction.
Throughout his presidency, Trump has bestowed the Presidential Medal of Freedom upon various athletes, including Tiger Woods, Roger Staubach, Mariano Rivera, and Lou Holtz. He has also awarded this honor posthumously to Elvis Presley and Rush Limbaugh. The announcement regarding Clemens came as a surprise towards the end of a lengthy Trump speech in front of an audience that had begun to wane in enthusiasm. Clemens, who was in attendance, expressed his astonishment at the recognition.
In response to the announcement, Clemens expressed gratitude for the honor, highlighting the significance of receiving it from President Trump, whom he referred to as a true winner. Despite the challenges faced by Clemens and other athletes suspected of using performance-enhancing drugs, Trump has been vocal in advocating for their inclusion in the Hall of Fame. He previously secured a federal pardon for Pete Rose, leading to the lifting of Major League Baseball’s ban on the all-time hits leader. Trump has also championed Rose’s induction into the Hall of Fame, a campaign that has yet to succeed.