Panel quiz Clemens, trainer on testimony

WASHINGTON, Feb. 13 (UPI) -- The credibility of pitcher Roger Clemens and his former trainer was questioned Wednesday during congressional hearing on the use of performance-enhancing drugs.

House Oversight and Government Reform Committee Chairman, Rep. Harry Waxman, D-Calif., said the hearing was called to focus on the accuracy of information former Major League Baseball trainer Brian McNamee provided former Sen. George Mitchell in his investigation into the use of steroids and other performance-enhancing drugs in baseball, particularly in the case of Clemens.

"We're not there yet," Waxman said after the four-hour hearing about whether further investigation by federal agencies would be recommended.

In closing the hearing, Waxman had to gavel Clemens down as the seven-time Cy Young winner insisted he had not taken performance-enhancing drugs. He also told McNamee he "took some hits" during the hearing, "some of them justified."

Committee members pounded on inconsistencies in the two men's statements.

McNamee's truthfulness was questioned, with U.S. Rep. Dan Burton, R-Ind., saying the former trainer told "lie after lie" in the probe.

Clemens' veracity was questioned when several committee members pointed to an affidavit by pitcher Andy Pettitte, who said Clemens told him he had taken human growth hormones. Clemens said Pettitte had misheard him.