Roger Clemens Baseball Cards: Most Valuable Cards for Rocket Fans

Roger Clemens, known as “The Rocket,” was one of the most dominant pitchers in Major League Baseball history. His incredible 24-year career spanned from 1984 to 2007, during which he racked up 354 wins, 4,672 strikeouts, and a record seven Cy Young Awards. For baseball card collectors and Clemens fans, his cards are some of the most sought-after in the hobby. Let’s take an in-depth look at the most valuable Roger Clemens baseball cards and why they’re so prized by collectors.

Who is Roger Clemens?

Roger Clemens is a retired American professional baseball pitcher who played for several Major League Baseball (MLB) teams, including the Boston Red Sox, Toronto Blue Jays, New York Yankees, and Houston Astros. He is widely regarded as one of the greatest pitchers of all time, known for his exceptional pitching skills and competitive drive.

What teams did Roger Clemens play for?

During his illustrious career, Roger Clemens played for four different Major League Baseball teams:

• Boston Red Sox (1984-1996)
• Toronto Blue Jays (1997-1998)
• New York Yankees (1999-2003, 2007)
• Houston Astros (2004-2007)

How many Cy Young Awards did Roger Clemens win?

Roger Clemens won a remarkable seven Cy Young Awards, recognizing him as the best pitcher in the American League in multiple seasons. These awards are a testament to his dominance on the mound.

When did Roger Clemens retire?

Roger Clemens officially retired from Major League Baseball in 2007 after a long and illustrious career. He concluded his playing days with the Houston Astros.

What is Roger Clemens known for?

Roger Clemens is primarily known for his exceptional pitching skills. He was renowned for his powerful fastball, which consistently clocked in at over 90 mph, and his devastating curveball. His ability to command both pitches made him a formidable force on the mound.

Why is Roger Clemens famous?

Roger Clemens’ fame stems from his numerous accomplishments and dominant performances throughout his career. He won multiple Cy Young Awards, led the league in strikeouts multiple times, and was a key contributor to several World Series championship teams. His intense competitive spirit and unwavering dedication to the game also contributed to his legendary status.

Did Roger Clemens win a World Series?

Yes, Roger Clemens won a World Series championship with the New York Yankees in 1999. He played a crucial role in the team’s postseason success, delivering dominant performances on the mound.

How many strikeouts does Roger Clemens have?

Roger Clemens amassed an impressive 4,672 strikeouts during his career, ranking him second all-time in Major League Baseball history. His ability to strike out hitters consistently was a hallmark of his dominance.

What is Roger Clemens’ fastest pitch speed?

Roger Clemens is known for throwing one of the fastest pitches in baseball history. His fastball has been clocked at over 100 mph, making it nearly impossible for hitters to react.

Was Roger Clemens ever MVP?

While Roger Clemens never won the Most Valuable Player (MVP) award, he was consistently recognized as one of the most valuable players in baseball due to his impact on his teams.

Did Roger Clemens play in the All-Star game?

Yes, Roger Clemens was selected to the All-Star game 11 times throughout his career. This recognition highlights his status as one of the best pitchers in baseball during his era.

How long did Roger Clemens play in MLB?

Roger Clemens played in Major League Baseball for 24 seasons, from 1984 to 2007.

When was Roger Clemens inducted into the Hall of Fame?

As of now, Roger Clemens has not been inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame. His candidacy has been controversial due to allegations of performance-enhancing drug use.

How many wins does Roger Clemens have?

Roger Clemens recorded 354 wins during his career, placing him among the top 10 all-time in MLB history. His ability to consistently win games was a testament to his skill and durability.

What is Roger Clemens’ net worth?

Roger Clemens’ net worth is estimated to be around $85 million. His wealth is derived from his lucrative baseball career, endorsements, and other business ventures.

Where did Roger Clemens go to college?

Roger Clemens attended the University of Texas at Austin, where he played college baseball. He was drafted by the Boston Red Sox in the first round of the 1983 MLB Draft.

What records does Roger Clemens hold?

Roger Clemens holds several records, including:

• Most strikeouts in a single season (208)
• Most strikeouts in a nine-inning game (20)
• Most career strikeouts by a right-handed pitcher
• Most career shutouts by a right-handed pitcher

Did Roger Clemens face any controversies?

Yes, Roger Clemens has been embroiled in controversies surrounding the use of performance-enhancing drugs. He was implicated in the Mitchell Report, which detailed the use of steroids and other performance-enhancing substances in Major League Baseball. These allegations have tarnished his legacy and hindered his Hall of Fame candidacy.

Why did Roger Clemens leave the Yankees?

Roger Clemens left the New York Yankees in 2003 to sign with the Houston Astros. His decision was motivated by a desire to pursue a World Series championship with a new team.

What number did Roger Clemens wear?

Roger Clemens primarily wore the number 21 throughout his career.

Did Roger Clemens ever play in Japan?

No, Roger Clemens never played professional baseball in Japan. He spent his entire career in Major League Baseball.

What year did Roger Clemens debut?

Roger Clemens made his Major League Baseball debut with the Boston Red Sox in 1984.

Who are Roger Clemens’ children?

Roger Clemens has five children: Koby, Kory, Kacey, Kelli, and Kourtney.

Did Roger Clemens play for the Red Sox?

Yes, Roger Clemens played for the Boston Red Sox from 1984 to 1996. He established himself as one of the best pitchers in baseball during his time with the Red Sox.

What awards has Roger Clemens won?

In addition to his seven Cy Young Awards, Roger Clemens has won numerous other awards, including:

• World Series Championship (1999)
• American League MVP (1986)
• Silver Slugger Award (1997)
• Triple Crown (1986)
• Numerous All-Star selections

How many games did Roger Clemens pitch?

Roger Clemens pitched in 438 games during his career.

Did Roger Clemens play in the Olympics?

No, Roger Clemens did not play in the Olympics.

How many career home runs does Roger Clemens have?

Roger Clemens hit 47 home runs during his career, which is a significant number for a pitcher.

Was Roger Clemens ever suspended?

No, Roger Clemens was never suspended from Major League Baseball for performance-enhancing drug use. However, his reputation has been tarnished by allegations of using these substances.

When did Roger Clemens play his last game?

Roger Clemens played his last game on September 28, 2007, with the Houston Astros.

Why was Roger Clemens called “Rocket”?

Roger Clemens was nicknamed “The Rocket” due to his incredibly fast fastball, which often exceeded 100 mph.

Is Roger Clemens married?

Yes, Roger Clemens is married to his wife, Debbie.

How many times was Roger Clemens an All-Star?

Roger Clemens was selected to the All-Star game 11 times during his career.

Where was Roger Clemens born?

Roger Clemens was born in Dayton, Ohio.

What was Roger Clemens’ rookie year?

Roger Clemens’ rookie year was 1984, when he made his debut with the Boston Red Sox.

Did Roger Clemens have any major injuries?

Roger Clemens experienced some injuries throughout his career, including elbow and shoulder problems. However, he was generally durable and missed minimal time due to injuries.

What pitches did Roger Clemens throw?

Roger Clemens primarily threw a fastball and a curveball. His fastball was one of the most feared pitches in baseball, while his curveball was devastatingly effective.

Why did Roger Clemens leave the Red Sox?

Roger Clemens left the Boston Red Sox in 1997 as a free agent. He signed a lucrative contract with the Toronto Blue Jays, seeking a new challenge and a chance to win a World Series.

How many no-hitters did Roger Clemens pitch?

Roger Clemens pitched two no-hitters during his career.

What was Roger Clemens’ ERA?

Roger Clemens’ career ERA (Earned Run Average) was 3.18, which is exceptionally low and indicates his dominance as a pitcher.

Is Roger Clemens in the Baseball Hall of Fame?

As of now, Roger Clemens has not been inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame. His candidacy has been controversial due to allegations of performance-enhancing drug use.

Why are Roger Clemens cards so popular?

Roger Clemens cards are highly collectible for several reasons:

• Clemens is considered one of the greatest pitchers of all time
• He played for popular teams like the Red Sox, Yankees, and Astros
• His career spanned over two decades, so he has cards from many different years and sets
• Some of his early cards are from the valuable 1980s era
• His accomplishments like Cy Young Awards and strikeout records add to his cards’ appeal
• Controversy later in his career has only increased interest in his cards

For these reasons, many Roger Clemens cards command high prices, especially his rookie cards and other early issues. Let’s explore some of the most valuable Clemens cards that collectors are after.

What is Roger Clemens’ most valuable rookie card?

Roger Clemens has several rookie cards from 1984 and 1985, but his most valuable is widely considered to be:

1984 Fleer Update #U-27 Roger Clemens

This card comes from the 1984 Fleer Update set, which was only available as a complete 132-card boxed set. It features a young Clemens in his Red Sox uniform and is considered his true rookie card by most collectors. In top condition, this card can sell for thousands of dollars.

Key details:

• First mainstream Clemens card
• Limited print run as a boxed set
• Simple design with red border
• Shows Clemens as a rookie with the Red Sox

A PSA 10 (gem mint) copy of this card has sold for over $10,000 at auction. Even in lower grades, it remains Clemens’ most valuable and sought-after rookie card.

What are Roger Clemens’ other valuable rookie cards?

While the 1984 Fleer Update is the most prized, Clemens has several other rookie cards worth noting:

1985 Topps #181 Roger Clemens

This is Clemens’ Topps rookie card and his first appearance in a mainstream set. The 1985 Topps design is iconic and this card shows a smiling young Clemens. It’s not as rare as the Fleer Update, but high-grade copies still command good prices.

1985 Donruss #273 Roger Clemens

Clemens’ Donruss rookie features him in a pitching pose. The black borders of 1985 Donruss make high-grade copies tough to find. This card is very popular with Clemens collectors.

1985 Fleer #155 Roger Clemens

While not his first Fleer card, this is Clemens’ rookie in the main 1985 Fleer set. It shows him staring in from the mound with an intense look. The gray borders are prone to chipping.

Are there any rare variations of Clemens’ rookie cards?

Yes, there are some valuable variations of Clemens’ early cards to look out for:

1985 Topps Tiffany #181 Roger Clemens

The Tiffany version of Clemens’ Topps rookie was printed on higher quality stock with a glossy finish. Only about 5,000 Tiffany sets were produced, making this much rarer than the regular version.

1984 TCMA Pawtucket Red Sox #22 Roger Clemens

This minor league card shows Clemens during his brief stint with the Pawtucket Red Sox. While not an official MLB rookie card, it’s very rare and valuable to serious Clemens collectors.

What are some of Clemens’ most valuable cards after his rookie year?

As Clemens’ career progressed, he continued to appear on valuable cards. Some standouts include:

1986 Topps Traded Tiffany #19T Roger Clemens

This card celebrates Clemens’ breakout 1986 season when he won both the AL MVP and Cy Young. The Tiffany version is especially prized.

1993 Finest Refractor #104 Roger Clemens

Refractor technology was new in 1993 and this card is stunning. Only about 241 copies exist, making it very rare.

1997 Flair Showcase Legacy Collection #3 Roger Clemens

Numbered to just 100 copies, this card represents Clemens at the peak of his career with the Blue Jays.

Are autographed Roger Clemens cards valuable?

Yes, cards with authentic Roger Clemens autographs can be quite valuable. Some top autographed cards include:

2001 Upper Deck Ultimate Collection Signatures Roger Clemens

Limited to just 250 copies, this on-card autograph shows Clemens as a Yankee.

2004 Topps Retired Signature Edition Roger Clemens Autograph

This card features a bold on-card signature and is limited to 230 copies.

2005 Upper Deck Ultimate Signatures Roger Clemens

Numbered to just 35 copies, this card combines rarity with a crisp on-card autograph.

What factors affect the value of Roger Clemens cards?

Several factors can impact how much a Roger Clemens card is worth:

• Age – Generally, older cards from early in his career are more valuable
• Rarity – Limited print runs or variations increase value
• Condition – Cards in better condition are worth much more
• Grading – Cards graded by PSA, BGS, or SGC usually sell for more
• Set popularity – Cards from iconic sets tend to be worth more
• Career timing – Cards from milestone seasons may have extra value
• Team – Cards showing Clemens on popular teams like the Yankees often sell well

How has controversy affected Roger Clemens card values?

Later in his career and after retirement, Clemens faced allegations of performance-enhancing drug use. This controversy has had mixed effects on his card values:

• Some collectors have shied away from Clemens cards due to the allegations
• Others see the controversy as adding to Clemens’ notoriety and collectibility
• Overall, top Clemens cards have generally maintained their value
• His status as one of the all-time great pitchers seems to outweigh the controversy for many collectors

What are some affordable Roger Clemens cards for new collectors?

Not all Roger Clemens cards are expensive. Here are some more budget-friendly options:

1987 Topps #340 Roger Clemens

This card shows Clemens after his MVP season and can often be found for under $5 in decent condition.

1991 Topps #530 Roger Clemens

From the height of the “junk wax” era, this card is very common but still a nice Clemens collectible.

1992 Donruss #50 Roger Clemens

Another readily available card from Clemens’ Red Sox years that won’t break the bank.

Are there any error or misprint Roger Clemens cards to look for?

Yes, there are a few notable error cards featuring Clemens:

1985 Fleer #155 Roger Clemens (Reversed Negative)

Some copies of this card were printed with the image reversed, creating a rare error variation.

1987 Topps #340 Roger Clemens (Blue Dot on Shoulder)

Some copies have a small blue dot on Clemens’ left shoulder, likely from a printing flaw.

1991 Topps #530 Roger Clemens (No Name on Front)

A small number of these cards were printed without Clemens’ name on the front.

What are some of the rarest Roger Clemens cards?

For serious collectors, here are some of the rarest and most valuable Clemens cards:

1996 Select Certified Mirror Gold #4 Roger Clemens

Numbered to just 30 copies, this is one of the rarest Clemens cards from his prime years.

2003 Topps Chrome Black Refractor #150 Roger Clemens

Limited to only 25 copies, this card combines rarity with the popular Chrome technology.

2005 Topps Chrome Black Refractor #12 Roger Clemens

Another stunning Black Refractor, this one is numbered to just 5 copies.

Are Roger Clemens minor league or college cards valuable?

Yes, cards showing Clemens before his MLB career can be quite valuable:

1983 University of Texas Team Issue Roger Clemens

This card shows Clemens during his college days and is very rare.

1984 TCMA Pawtucket Red Sox #22 Roger Clemens

As mentioned earlier, this minor league card is highly prized by Clemens collectors.

What are some valuable Roger Clemens insert cards?

Insert cards, which were randomly inserted into packs, can be quite valuable. Some top Clemens inserts include:

1993 Finest Refractor #104 Roger Clemens

As mentioned earlier, this stunning refractor is highly sought after.

1997 Flair Showcase Legacy Collection #3 Roger Clemens

Numbered to 100, this insert captures Clemens at his peak.

1998 Donruss Crusade Red #48 Roger Clemens

Part of a popular insert set, this card is numbered to just 25.

Are there any valuable Roger Clemens relic cards?

Relic cards, which contain a piece of game-used memorabilia, can be quite valuable. Some top Clemens relics include:

2001 Upper Deck Game Jersey Roger Clemens

Contains a piece of Clemens’ game-worn Yankees jersey.

2002 Topps Heritage Clubhouse Collection Roger Clemens

Features a swatch from a Clemens game-used bat.

2004 Leaf Certified Materials Mirror Bat #54 Roger Clemens

Numbered to just 5 copies, this card contains a piece of game-used bat.

What are some of the most unique Roger Clemens cards?

For collectors looking for something different, here are some unique Clemens cards:

1991 Upper Deck Heroes Roger Clemens Hologram

This card features a hologram image of Clemens pitching.

1996 Pinnacle Aficionado Roger Clemens

Printed on canvas-textured stock for a unique look and feel.

2005 Topps Chrome Black Refractor Printing Plate Roger Clemens

A one-of-one card used in the printing process for Clemens’ Chrome card.

How do Roger Clemens cards compare in value to other pitchers of his era?

Clemens cards are generally among the most valuable of pitchers from the 1980s-2000s. Here’s how he compares to some contemporaries:

• Greg Maddux – Generally similar values, with some Maddux cards being slightly less valuable
• Randy Johnson – Most Johnson cards are less valuable than comparable Clemens cards
• Pedro Martinez – Martinez cards are popular but usually less valuable than Clemens
• Nolan Ryan – Ryan’s cards, especially his earlier ones, often exceed Clemens in value

What should collectors look for when buying Roger Clemens cards?

When purchasing Roger Clemens cards, keep these tips in mind:

• Condition is key, especially for older cards
• Check for authenticity, especially with autographs
• Research recent sales of similar cards to gauge value
• Consider getting valuable cards professionally graded
• Be aware of common counterfeits, especially of rookie cards
• Look for cards that showcase important moments in Clemens’ career
• Consider the seller’s reputation and return policy

How can collectors preserve the value of their Roger Clemens cards?

To maintain the value of Clemens cards in your collection:

• Store cards in protective sleeves and cases
• Keep cards away from light, heat, and humidity
• Handle cards carefully, especially valuable ones
• Consider getting important cards professionally graded
• Keep a detailed inventory of your collection
• Stay informed about market trends for Clemens cards

What is the future outlook for Roger Clemens card values?

The future value of Roger Clemens cards will likely depend on several factors:

• His potential Hall of Fame induction could boost values
• The overall health of the sports card market
• How collectors view his legacy in light of PED allegations
• The condition and rarity of specific cards
• Trends in collector interest for cards from his era

Overall, top condition Clemens rookie cards and rare inserts are likely to remain valuable due to his place in baseball history, regardless of controversy.

Conclusion: Are Roger Clemens cards a good investment?

Roger Clemens cards, especially key rookies and rare issues, have proven to be solid investments over time. His status as one of the greatest pitchers in MLB history ensures ongoing collector interest. While controversy has impacted his legacy, it hasn’t significantly diminished the value of his top cards.

For collectors and fans, Clemens cards offer a way to own a piece of baseball history. From his early days with the Red Sox to his later years with the Yankees, Clemens’ cards chronicle a remarkable career. Whether you’re a serious investor or a casual fan, there’s likely a Roger Clemens card that fits your collecting goals and budget.

Remember, while some cards may increase in value, it’s best to collect what you enjoy rather than viewing cards solely as investments. The joy of owning a piece of “The Rocket’s” legacy can be its own reward for many baseball fans and collectors.