Rocket returns to take on the old English D!

Rocket returns to take on the old English D!

By Justin Mangan

  

After sweeping the St. Louis Cardinals amidst a sold out crowd each of the three games, the Detroit Tigers are now set to take on the Houston Astro’s. A team that one-year ago went to the World Series and lost to the Chicago White Sox. But there is more to this series than their heroics last year. This series is also part of the return of Roger Clemens to the major leagues. In just his second game of the season Clemens will take on the major league leading 51 win Detroit Tigers on Tuesday June 27th.

  

As the suspense built on Clemens’ possible return to the majors during the off-season and much of the first half of the season, his decision gathered much attention. So much attention that even his rehab starts in the minors became national events. Now with the return of the Rocket everyone is trying to see the 7-time Cy Young Award winner in what could be his final season in the majors. Not to mention, his final game against the Tigers. But before he is sent to Cooperstown, he will face Nate Robertson and his 7-3 mark on the year.

  

The last time Clemens faced the Tigers he was wearing the pinstripes, as he was unsuccessful in recording his 300th career victory. The game lasted 7 innings where at one point during the game it seemed Clemens would once again enter the record books after leaving the game with a 7-1 lead. But the margin quickly vanished as he earned a no-decision. However, this trip will hold some stakes for the Rocket as the tries for his first win of the season.

  

After coming off three big victories against one of the top teams in the National League, the Tigers have Motown steering and critics raving. For a city that knows their baseball, but hasn’t seen a World Series since the historic 1984 season, this Tuesday will be a special day for Tiger fans. Rain or shine on Tuesday the fans will be vigorous, and Comerica Park will be frantic. Fans will come from the Elwood Grill, The Detroit Athletic Club and Hockey Town Café to see the rocket take the mound.

  

With what has already been a magical season for the Tigers, it is only appropriate that they meet the Hall of Fame bound pitcher on the confines of Comerica Park. And it would only be fitting that the Tigers defeat Clemens one last time. Tuesday night will be a storied event for Tiger fans, one that will always be remembered.