Fansided

27 best MLB nicknames of all-time

By Josh Criswell

Oct 4, 2015; Cleveland, OH, USA; Boston Red Sox designated hitter David Ortiz (34) hits an RBI double in the first inning against the Cleveland Indians at Progressive Field. Mandatory Credit: David Richard-USA TODAY Sports
Oct 4, 2015; Cleveland, OH, USA; Boston Red Sox designated hitter David Ortiz (34) hits an RBI double in the first inning against the Cleveland Indians at Progressive Field. Mandatory Credit: David Richard-USA TODAY Sports /
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Jul 30, 2013; Boston, MA, USA; Boston Red Sox former pitcher Roger Clemens waves to the crowd during pre game ceremonies against the Seattle Mariners at Fenway Park. Mandatory Credit: Bob DeChiara-USA TODAY Sports
Jul 30, 2013; Boston, MA, USA; Boston Red Sox former pitcher Roger Clemens waves to the crowd during pre game ceremonies against the Seattle Mariners at Fenway Park. Mandatory Credit: Bob DeChiara-USA TODAY Sports /

18. “The Rocket” Roger Clemens

Roger Clemens was one of the most dominant players of his generation, and his nickname reflected his status as an elite power pitcher.

Nicknamed “The Rocket”, Clemens experienced a prolific MLB career, picking up countless accolades throughout his 23 years in the league.

He began his career with the Boston Red Sox, and in his third year in the majors, established himself as one of the premier pitchers in baseball. Clemens took home 1986 American League Cy Young and MVP honors after leading the league in wins (24), win-loss percentage (.857), ERA (2.48), shutouts (7) and several other statistical categories.

“The Rocket” did not slow down at all as he got older, either. When all was said and done, he had led the league in ERA seven times, strikeouts on five occasions and wins four times. He also won  compiled seven Cy Young Awards, the last coming at age 42 with the Houston Astros, making him the oldest player to win the coveted honor.

Unfortunately, Clemens’ legacy does not reflect that of one of the most successful pitchers that baseball has ever seen.

Clemens was first linked to steroids in 2005 as a result of comments made by Jose Canseco in his newly released book “Juiced.” Given that Canseco had a reputation to relish the spotlight and make outlandish statements, the initial charges were questionable.

Following his final season, though, rumors of steroid use became rampant due to the release of the Mitchell Report in 2007. The report was the culmination of a 20-month investigation into performance-enhancing-drug use that put the integrity of baseball on trial.

Clemens adamantly denied the allegations against him both in the media and in court. The latter of which would land him in legal trouble that ultimately dragged his reputation through the mud.

Steroid allegations aside, however, Clemens’ nickname fit his pitching style perfectly. Even if his rocket fuel was illegal substances.

Next: 17. Nails

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