December 1, 2008 FOX 26-Houston is reporting that Mike Hampton has agreed to a deal with the Astros.
Our View:The agreement is pending Hampton successfully completing a team physical, and terms of the deal were not disclosed. Hampton won a career-best 22 games with the Astros in 1999.
November 21, 2008 Free agent Mike Hampton covets a one-year deal, according to the Hot Stove Blog on MLB.com.
Our View:Hampton has a terrible track record with durability, but the Braves may be willing to re-sign him in little risk of a one-year deal.
November 4, 2008 The Astros have had internal discussions about Mike Hampton, to the Houston Chronicle. Hampton is yet to file for free agency, which means only the Braves can have discussions with him at this time.
Our View:Hampton didn't pitch in the majors until August of 2008, and went 3-4 with a 4.85 ERA. He would be a much cheaper option for a rotation than Sabathia, Lowe, Sheets, or Dempster, which would be why he has appeal.
October 23, 2008 The AP has confirmed earlier reports that the Atlanta Braves would like to re-sign Mike Hampton, who is a free agent.
Our View:Hampton has been mostly ineffective in his time spent in Atlanta. He made 13 starts last season and was 3-4 with a 4.85 ERA. It's not likely they will face much competition from other team's in retaining the veteran.
October 3, 2008 The Atlanta Braves have told pitcher Mike Hampton that they would like to re-sign him, according to the Atlanta Journal-Constitution.
Our View:With the age and health status of their other hurlers, this seems like a risky move, but Hampton did throw well down the stretch. The only question is if he can stay healthy, which, obviously, he has not been able to do for a number of years.
