President Trump said Saturday he will present former Major League Baseball pitcher Roger Clemens with the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the nation's highest civilian honor, framing the award as a rebuke to the Baseball Hall of Fame, which has repeatedly passed over the seven-time Cy Young winner.
Speaking at a rally in San Antonio, Trump declared, "I'm pleased to announce that we are taking it into our own hands. Forget about the Hall of Fame; he'll get there someday. I mean, I don't know how they can keep him out." The president's remarks came after Clemens, a Texas native and one of the most decorated pitchers in MLB history, introduced him to the crowd, part of a push to boost Republican candidates in the Lone Star State ahead of the November midterms.
Clemens, who pitched for over two decades, has been a polarizing figure due to allegations of performance-enhancing drug use. He was investigated by federal authorities after testifying before Congress in 2008, and was acquitted of perjury charges in 2012. Trump has repeatedly defended Clemens, accusing the Obama-era Justice Department of pursuing the case based on "rumors and innuendo."
The president has previously urged the Hall of Fame to induct Clemens, noting that he is the only pitcher with 300 career wins not enshrined in Cooperstown. In a Truth Social post last December, Trump called the omission "a total travesty" and highlighted Clemens's acquittal, writing that he "never tested positive" and was "FULLY ACQUITTED OF ALL CHARGES."
Clemens, nicknamed "Rocket," took the stage after Trump's announcement and expressed gratitude, saying, "There wouldn't be another president I'd want to get it from." He also joked that Trump had embellished his career statistics during the introduction.
The Medal of Freedom ceremony is expected to take place in the coming weeks, though the White House has not yet announced a date. The award has become a common tool for Trump to honor allies and figures he believes have been unfairly treated by established institutions.
The announcement comes as Trump intensifies his political activities, with rallies in key states and a focus on supporting GOP candidates. His appearance in Texas is part of a broader effort to shore up support in a state that has become unexpectedly competitive, as Texas turns into a key battleground. Clemens's endorsement could help rally conservative voters, though his legacy remains contested.
Critics have questioned the decision, citing the doping allegations and the fact that Clemens was never inducted into the Hall of Fame. Supporters, however, argue that his acquittal and on-field achievements merit recognition. The Medal of Freedom has been awarded to athletes before, including golfers and boxers, but rarely to someone with Clemens's baggage.
The move also highlights Trump's willingness to bypass traditional gatekeepers, a theme that resonates with his base. As the midterms approach, the president's actions are likely to be scrutinized for their political implications, especially in states where GOP candidates face tight races.
