He was concerned there was always a chance he'd be misinterpreted. He had a good sense of humor, but he was guarded. He knew who was around. If he was there with his teammates, the manager and coaches, he'd be looser. If others were in the room, he'd be careful.
Clubhouses are fun places for players.
Clemente, however, viewed them as his office where he would meticulously prepare for each game. Good morning, Mr. Clemente, I am your neck. He'd hear me and he'd snicker. Despite the four batting titles and a career .317 average, Clemente believed he was overlooked, lost in the media excitement over stars like Hank Aaron and Willie Mays. It drove him and it motivated him.