On July 13, 2004Having earned the All-Star MVP award as a 23-year-old for pitching three perfect innings at the Astrodome in 1986, the 41-year-old Roger Clemens gives up six runs in the 1st inning in the 75th Midsummer Classic played at Houston’s Minute Maid Park. The eventual 9 – 4 American League victory is halted in the top of the 5th inning as the much chagrined “Rocket” receives the Commissioner’s Historic Achievement Award from Bud Selig in recognition of his outstanding 21-year career.

Three other Astros faired better as Jeff Kent and Carlos Beltran single before the Minute Maid Park crowd while Lance Berkman mans center field . Local fans boo manager Jimy Williams when he is introduced. It will be the last time as he and two coaches are fired the next day. Former Astro infielder Phil Garner is named interim manager.
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