At Boone's invitation, Clemens to be guest instructor at Yanks camp

TAMPA, Fla. -- The Yankees are turning back the clock with invitations to an expanded list of guest instructors this spring, including seven-time Cy Young Award winner Roger Clemens, who was last associated with the franchise during his final comeback at the age of 44 in 2007.

Yankees manager Aaron Boone confirmed he is expecting Clemens to arrive later in the week, having personally invited the hurler to work with the club’s pitching staff.

“He’s one of my favorite teammates ever,” Boone said. “When I got traded over here [in 2003], I remember being a little apprehensive, like, ‘What’s this Rocket about?’ Knocking hitters down, all that. What a great teammate. I think he’s got a ton to give and a desire to give it. And I know a lot of our guys are excited to see him.”

SNY first reported Clemens’ upcoming return to camp, headlining a recognizable roster of former players.

Also expected to attend Yankees Spring Training for various periods are: Bucky Dent, Tino Martinez, Mike Mussina, Andy Pettitte, Jorge Posada, Willie Randolph, CC Sabathia, Alfonso Soriano, and Joe Torre, the club confirmed. Mainstays Ron Guidry and Nick Swisher are already in camp.

“I’m trying to get more people involved,” Boone said. “I think it’s great.”

Clemens’ tenures with the Yankees (1999-2003, ’07) were highlighted by his 300th victory in 2003, among other memorable events. Clemens pitched to a 354-184 record, a 3.12 ERA and 4,672 strikeouts in 709 games (707 starts) over a 24-year career with the Red Sox, Blue Jays, Yankees and Astros.

Clemens’ candidacy for the National Baseball Hall of Fame was impacted by his inclusion in the 2007 Mitchell Report. 2022 marked his 10th and final year on the BBWAA Hall of Fame ballot.

“He was a guy that, every single day, was totally connected and hooked up on every pitch,” Boone said. “Playing behind him was awesome because he was so engaged: ‘Boonie, coming your way, baby! Let’s go!’ He was just a lot of fun to play with. I’m thrilled to get him there. I was so fired up when I called [to hear] how excited he was.”