Astros reliever Paul Clemens felt bad about yelling at the home-plate ump, so he apologized
Astros pitcher Paul Clemens is so nice.
Astros pitcher Paul Clemens is so nice, he'll apologize to the umpires for arguing balls and strikes.
Houston starter Erik Bedard was chased from Monday's contest against the Athletics after recording just one out, and Astros skipper Bo Porter turned to the rookie right-hander to save his bullpen. Clemens was up to the task, allowing only one hit and striking out three over 5 1/3 scoreless innings.
But after one 2-2 pitch that home plate umpire Paul Emmel called a ball, Clemens jawed a bit before Emmel told him to tone it down. After the game, Clemens minded his manners:
"I want to apologize to the whole umpiring crew," he said. "That was just my competitive nature. I hope they don't take it personally."
Clemens later dislocated his pinky finger while trying to field a ball, so hopefully this apology will help even out his karma a bit.
-- Dakota Gardner / MLB.com