Clemens (11 Ks) looks sharp

CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas -- Roger Clemens's latest step back toward the major leagues offered further proof that the seven-time Cy Young Award winner has plenty left in his 43-year-old right arm.

Pitching for the Houston Astros' Double A affiliate, Clemens worked six dominant innings last night, holding the San Antonio Missions to just two hits while striking out 11 and walking none in the Hooks' 5-1 victory in the Texas League.

Clemens faced 19 batters, retiring five on ground outs, including one double play, and two on fly balls.

Fifty-two of 73 pitches went for strikes as he tied the team record for strikeouts in a game. He didn't allow a hit until one out in the fifth.

Clemens, who agreed to a pro rated $22 million, one-year contract with the Astros May 31, plans to start for Triple A Round Rock Friday and make his big league return June 22 against the Twins in Houston.