Hampton seeking one-year deal
Most members of Braves GM Frank Wren's staff are willing to take the risk of bringing Mike Hampton back and it appears they may be able to do so without taking a multi-year risk. Hampton's agent Mark Rodgers told ESPN.com that he's seeking a one-year contract for the veteran left-hander.
"We're looking for a straight one-year deal -- no option, no nothing,"Rodgers told ESPN.com. "Mike just wants an opportunity to go somewhere and be healthy for a year."
Hampton missed nearly three full seasons before returning to the mound in July. While making 13 uninterrupted starts and proving both healthy and effective, he created some demand before hitting the free agent market. The Astros are among the other teams believed to have a definite interest in the 36-year-old hurler.
- Mark Bowman
"We're looking for a straight one-year deal -- no option, no nothing,"Rodgers told ESPN.com. "Mike just wants an opportunity to go somewhere and be healthy for a year."
Hampton missed nearly three full seasons before returning to the mound in July. While making 13 uninterrupted starts and proving both healthy and effective, he created some demand before hitting the free agent market. The Astros are among the other teams believed to have a definite interest in the 36-year-old hurler.
- Mark Bowman
I hope he does come back next year & show everbody that he still can pitch.
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He stated that he'd like to show some loyalty for the Braves sticking with him through those injuries. That's refreshing. Also, he looked really good when he DID finally come back to pitch this past season, so, if the price is right, it would make good sense to bring him back.
Who knows, if the Braves somehow (and surprisingly) become glutted with good starting pitchers, maybe Hampton can be that power-hitting left fielder they've been wanting. :)
I didn't hear what type of clubhouse influence he is, but if, like Smoltz and Glavine, he's a mentor and good influence, he would be another good one to have around for the young pitchers.
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I can easily see Hampton coming back for either a 1 or 2 million dollar contract or one based mostly on incentives. I think an incentives based contract would be more than fair, as if he goes down with another injury the Braves wouldn't lose any money.
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