By Michael Ventura
DNAinfo Senior Editor
MANHATTAN — Roger Clemens' former Yankee teammates are largely keeping quiet about the former pitching ace who was indicted Thursday for lying to Congress about steroid use.
Yankee Captain Derek Jeter, for example, left the clubhouse before reporters could get to him after Thursday's 11-5 win over the Detroit Tigers, the New York Post reported.
“I don’t want to comment until everything is said and done,” Yankees manager Joe Girardi told the Post. “I don’t know the particulars. Let me have time to digest it and deal with it when it’s time.”
Yankee pitcher Andy Pettitte, who will likely testify in Clemens' upcoming perjury trial, declined to comment through a team spokesman.
Both Yankees were former teammates of Clemens.
David Cone, a former Yankee who was in the pitching rotation with Clemens in 1999 and 2000, said it was a "dark day" when he heard the "Rocket" was accused of lying to Congress about using steroids and human growth hormone.
“We all knew this could happen," Cone told the Post. "He was a teammate of mine. I really feel for him.”
Lance Berkman, who played with Clemens on the Houston Astros and now plays for the Yanks, stood by Clemens, saying he belongs in Cooperstown despite the allegations.
"I don't care what happens; I love the guy," Berkman said, according to the Daily News. "I feel bad for him and his family, but he's a big boy and he'll face up to whatever it is. It doesn't change my opinion of him at all."
Clemens himself took to Twitter Thursday to defend himself.
"I never took HGH or Steroids. And I did not lie to Congress," Clemens tweeted. "I look forward to challenging the Governments accusations, and hope people will keep an open mind until trial. I appreciate all the support I have been getting. I am happy to finally have my day in court."
Clemens then tweeted words of thanks to fans who supported him.
