Paul Clemens: Player Profile

Continuing the theme of pitchers that debuted in 2013, Paul Clemens is up next in our series of player profiles. Clemens enters his age 26 season without a clearly defined role on the team.

Clemens made the club last spring and started the year as a long reliever. Despite giving up three homers in his big league debut, Paul still managed to pick up the victory — thanks to some outstanding offensive support coupled with a short outing from starter Erik Bedard. Clemens would bounce back with a couple of decent outings but would ultimately have an up-and-down rookie season.

After posting a 6.36 ERA in 30 appearances as a reliever, Clemens was optioned to AAA Oklahoma City to work as a starter. Paul fared better in a more familiar role in the minors and was recalled a month later. Clemens made five starts for the Astros down the stretch, going 0-3 while posting a 1.5 WHIP.

Armed with a fastball that averages 93 m.p.h. along with a changeup and a plus curve, his best chance of sticking in the majors may be as a reliever. Clemens currently ranks toward the bottom of the list of the Astros potential starters and figures to go to Spring Training vying for a spot in the bullpen.

Paul Clemens ( Ken Blaze-USA TODAY Sports)