During his time with the Astros, Lemongello quickly became known for his fastball and curveball combination. In his rookie season, he appeared in 25 games, starting 20 of them, and posted a 3.68 ERA. His performance showed promise, and he became a regular part of the Astros' pitching rotation.
The following year, in 1977, Lemongello had one of his most active seasons. He pitched in 34 games, starting 31, and recorded a 9-14 win-loss record with a 3.67 ERA. Despite the losing record, he demonstrated durability and the ability to pitch deep into games, completing 11 of his starts. His 1977 season was marked by a career-high 120 strikeouts, showcasing his ability to challenge hitters.
In 1978, Lemongello continued to be a mainstay in the Astros' rotation. He started 32 games and finished the season with a 9-14 record once again, along with a 3.80 ERA. His performance remained consistent, and he was known for his competitive nature on the mound. However, the Astros struggled as a team, which often left Lemongello without the run support needed to secure more victories.
Lemongello's tenure with the Astros came to an end after the 1978 season when he was traded to the Toronto Blue Jays. In 1979, he joined the Blue Jays' pitching staff, but his time in Toronto was brief. He appeared in 24 games, starting 14, and posted a 6.29 ERA. The transition to a new team and league proved challenging, and he struggled to find the same level of success he had experienced in Houston.
Off the field, Lemongello was known for his eccentric personality and sometimes erratic behavior. His fiery temperament occasionally led to conflicts with teammates and management. Despite these challenges, he remained a memorable figure during his time in the majors.
After the 1979 season, Lemongello's major league career came to an end. He attempted to continue playing professionally in the minor leagues but eventually retired from baseball. His career, though relatively short, left an impression on those who watched him pitch during the late 1970s.
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