BOSTON — Roger Clemens’s legacy as one of baseball’s greatest pitchers was severely challenged by the recent allegations contained in the Mitchell Report, that a strength and conditioning coach injected him with anabolic steroids and human growth hormone (HGH) over a three-year period beginning in 1998.

Since the release of this information in December, Clemens’ has taken no proper path to deal with the issue. He spoke under oath for about five hours to congressional lawyers last Tuesday, then said he told them he did not use performance-enhancing drugs. Denying charges, avoiding press, and being all around moot on the topic of this issue certainly is not working in Clemens’ favor. Not only has he lost his spot in the Hall of Fame, he has also lost the trust of many fans.

“It brings down the whole sport… People aren’t playing the game anymore, performance enhancers are,” says high school gym teacher Mike Tyyrell, “It gives kids the idea that this is acceptable.” The number of young men using steroids has skyrocketed. Last year, nearly half a million teenage boys used steroids. One can only wonder if athletic icons, such as Roger Clemens, have any effect on the ever growing use of steroids in teens.

The reputation of Major League Baseball has been challenged and tainted. America’s favorite pastime needs to renew faith in their fans. Clemens will meet with congress again next week to proceed with the hearing.