Clemens, Hitchcock on mend for Yanks

Tampa, Fla. New York Yankees ace Roger Clemens, on the disabled list with a strained groin, felt fine after throwing 92 pitches in a rehabilitation start for Class-A Tampa on Saturday.

Clemens allowed three runs on five hits in five innings, walking two and striking out six. His fastball was clocked consistently in the low 90s.

Clemens is 8-3 with a 4.02 ERA this season, but he didn’t get a decision in his last five starts before going on the DL on July 13th. It’s his third stint on the disabled list with a strained right groin. He’s been on the DL six times during his 19-year major league career.

Meanwhile, New York pitcher Sterling Hitchcock, out with a back injury, threw a perfect inning during his final rehabilitation start Saturday in the Gulf Coast League. The lefty could return from the disabled list today.

Witasick goes on DL

San Francisco Reliever Jay Witasick was added to San Francisco’s lengthy disabled list Saturday with a bruised left foot. Witasick (1-0) was hit by a line drive Friday.

Rolen ponders trade

Atlanta All-Star third baseman Scott Rolen of Philadelphia said Saturday that he would be willing to consider signing a long-term deal if he gets traded to St. Louis. St. Louis spokesman Brian Bartow confirmed that the Cardinals and Phillies have been talking.

Arizona catcher injured

Phoenix Arizona put catcher Damian Miller on the 15-day disabled list Saturday with a strained lower back and activated first baseman Erubiel Durazo. Center fielder Steve Finley said he will miss at least two games after being hit on the left elbow with a pitch Friday.