Roger Clemens’ day finished up a little while ago as the 44 year-old seven-time Cy Young Award winner made his return to the Bronx.

After permitting a first inning run on an Adam LaRoche two out single, the Rocket settled down to pitch two consecutive scoreless before the Pirates tied it at three with a two out Jack Wilson double to right which Bobby Abreu couldn’t track down. It was hit well but was also one the adventurous right fielder could’ve had if he could overcome his fear of the wall.

After the hit, Clemens finished strong by retiring the last seven including his seventh strikeout of the day to end the top half of the sixth. He left to cheers from the Stadium crowd and was in line for career win No. 349 due to a Jorge Posada fifth inning sac fly.

His final line: 6 IP, 5 H, 3 R (3 ER), 2 BB, 7 K’s, 108 pitches

Considering that it was his first start, that’s a lot of pitches. But the most encouraging news for the Bronx Bombers was his command. Though he wasn’t overpowering with a fastball which reached 90, Clemens was able to hit spots and pitch effectively. His splitter was particularly effective resulting in a few whiffs.

All in all, a decent outing from a man who despite the ridiculous prorated $28 million salary remains locked in. All one had to do was watch his reaction to a throw he made to end the second on a tapper where the fiery competitor pumped his fist. Clemens might be a hired gun but that fire still burns.

At last check, the Yanks led 8-3 with one out in the eighth looking on their way to a fifth consecutive victory.