President Trump Named Roger Clemens for Medal of Freedom
The 64-year-old former pitcher will receive the nation's highest civilian award following a 24-year professional career.
Updated on Oct. 12, 2026 in Baseball
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President Donald Trump announced that Roger Clemens, the longtime major league pitcher, will be awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom. The announcement took place during a speech in San Antonio, Texas.
Why it matters
President Trump highlighted the career of the 64-year-old, describing him as one of the greatest athletes and arguably the greatest pitcher of all time. The Presidential Medal of Freedom serves as the highest honor the United States bestows upon civilians.
Roger Clemens played throughout a 24-year professional career across four teams. He concluded his eligibility for the Baseball Hall of Fame with a 65.2% vote share.
The players
Donald Trump
Donald Trump is the current President of the United States.
Roger Clemens
Roger Clemens is a former professional baseball player who pitched for 24 seasons.
The details
Clemens, who played for the Boston Red Sox, Toronto Blue Jays, New York Yankees, and Houston Astros, was never inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame. His candidacy ended in 2022 after failing to reach the mandatory 75% approval threshold required by the BBWAA.
Timeline
In 2022, Clemens received his final Hall of Fame ballot vote share.
On Wednesday, October 7, 2026, President Trump announced the award in San Antonio.
Season Trajectory
The recognition of Roger Clemens stands in contrast to his exclusion from the Baseball Hall of Fame induction process. This presidential honor highlights the ongoing debate regarding his legacy relative to the established thresholds required for baseball's highest recognition.
This award does not alter the official Hall of Fame standing, as the 75% voting threshold remains the exclusive standard for induction. Baseball followers should note that this honor remains separate from professional league accomplishments.
The takeaway
The Presidential Medal of Freedom is a civilian honor distinct from professional sports organizations or athletic institutions. While the award celebrates his career, it does not change the eligibility requirements or historical voting outcomes for the Baseball Hall of Fame.
Further reading
For more on professional baseball history, visit the Baseball section.
Live Poll
Should the Presidential Medal of Freedom be awarded to athletes with controversial professional records?
