ESPN’s Jerry Crasnick spoke to Mike Hampton’s agent Mark Rodgers, who said, "We’re looking for a straight one-year deal – no option, no nothing." Hampton obviously just wants to re-establish himself as a healthy, useful starting pitcher after so many lost seasons. It’s unclear whether Rodgers’ statement means Hampton will avoid incentive-based offers.
Crasnick says Hampton wants to pitch near his Arizona home, but the Braves, Astros, Padres, Giants, and Cardinals could be fits. Astros GM Ed Wade said recently he’s had dialogue with Rodgers and Hampton is open to returning to Houston. The Braves have also had dialogue.
Hampton, 36, posted a 4.17 ERA in 11 starts over the season’s final two months. Still, his peripheral stats were not impressive during that period.
