Catcher’s Blog

Mike Hampton has had yet another setback by straining his right hamstring from a supposed 2-inning start. Wren isn’t sure that Hampton will be able to pitch again in the Mexican Winter League since there are only four weeks remaining. The Braves are hopeful, though, that he’ll be able to pitch again when Spring Training begins.

“Now we just have less of an indication of where Mike is in his comeback,” Braves general manager Frank Wren said. “The good news is that he was ecstatic about how his arm felt and how he commanded his pitches.”

“He would love to pitch again [in the Mexican League],” Wren said. “It’s just a matter of if he has enough time to come back.”

The first three spots are locked in with Smoltz, Hudson, and the recent addition of Glavine to the staff. If Hampton is unable to pitch by Opening Day, there are four other pitchers vying for the two vacant spots, Chuck James, Jeff Bennett, Jair Jurrjens, and Jo-Jo Reyes.

Rest of the article.