BOSTON — April 10, 2025
Roger Clemens, the legendary former pitcher and one of the most polarizing figures in Red Sox history, announced today that he will return to his role as a special defensive coach for the Boston Red Sox. The news comes on the heels of Boston’s third consecutive loss to the Toronto Blue Jays, capping off a frustrating series that exposed ongoing struggles both on and off the field.
The Red Sox, now sitting at 5–7 to start the season, have shown flashes of potential but continue to falter late in games—particularly in pitching and defensive execution. Clemens’ return is expected to bolster a pitching staff that has looked disoriented and undisciplined, with team ERA ballooning to 5.26.
“I’ve been watching closely, and I still care deeply about this organization,” Clemens said in a brief media availability at Fenway Park. “There are fundamentals we need to get back to. This team has talent, but it needs direction—and I’m here to help with that.”
While Clemens emphasized a focus on defense and fundamentals, the timing of his return has raised eyebrows. Multiple sources inside the clubhouse have confirmed there are “unresolved tensions” among players and staff—ranging from leadership voids to communication breakdowns between veterans and younger players.
One anonymous player described the locker room atmosphere as “disconnected,” noting that frustration has been building since spring training. Manager Alex Cora, facing growing pressure, acknowledged the team’s internal challenges but declined to comment directly on Clemens’ involvement.
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“We’ve got work to do, no question,” Cora said postgame. “Roger brings intensity and experience. Hopefully, that gives us a spark.”
Clemens, who last worked with the Red Sox organization in 2022, will begin re-integrating into the coaching staff this weekend. His role will focus on mentoring the pitching rotation and helping younger arms build consistency under pressure—something the Red Sox have lacked early in the season.
Whether the addition of Clemens can stabilize a team still searching for its identity remains to be seen. But with locker room issues spilling into public view and another AL East series looming, Boston’s margin for error is already wearing thin.
