Roger Clemens defamation lawsuit settlement reached

A settlement has been reached in the 2008 lawsuit filed against former All-Star pitcher Roger Clemens by his ex-trainer, Brian McNamee.

A settlement has been reached in the 2008 lawsuit filed against former All-Star pitcher Roger Clemens by his ex-trainer, Brian McNamee, attorneys told the Associated Press on Wednesday.

The settlement amount, which was not disclosed, will be paid by Clemens' insurance company, AIG. Clemens will not contribute any money, said attorney Chip Babcock.

• Don't blame Cubs for taking advantage of rules with Kris Bryant

McNamee sued Clemens for defamation in 2008, arguing Clemens lied and manufactured evidence after McNamee accused him of using performance-enhancing drugs.

McNamee also alleged Clemens launched a public-relations attack against McNamee after the former strength coach told Congress that he routinely injected Clemens with human growth hormone and other steroids from 1998 through 2001.

The case headed to federal court in 2009. A year later, Clemens was indicted on charges of making false statements to Congress about his alleged use of performance-enhancing drugs. After one retrial in 2011, Clemens was found not guilty on one count of obstruction of Congress, three counts of making false statements and two counts of perjury.

• Reports: Marlins close to signing OF Christian Yelich to long-term deal

Clemens told the Houston Chronicle on Wednesday that he was not present for the settlement talks. Babcock said he and Clements were disappointed they did not get to try the case.

"I was not present, nor would have I participated in paying one dime," Clemens told the Chronicle late Wednesday night. "Everyone knows my stance on the subject."

Clemens pitched for 24 seasons with the Boston Red Sox, Toronto Blue Jays, New York Yankees and Houston Astros. He last appeared in a major-league game in 2007, and also attempted an Independent League comeback in 2012 with the Sugar Land Skeeters.

Clemens now works with the Astros as a special assistant to general maanger Jeff Luhnow.

- Mike Fiammetta