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Hampton Pitches Four, Doesn’t Break In Half
Written by Colin on March 17, 2008 – 9:38 pm|
Mike Hampton had a very successful outing today, pitching 4-1/3 innings and giving up one run. He also gave up two hits, walked three, and struck out three. We should be encouraged - and Hampton has the right to feel encouraged as well. The Braves lost 4-2 to the Cardinals - the only two runs were a product of the two backup infield candidates. Brent Lillibridge knocked in a run with his double, and Martin Prado went 2-3 and scored a run. Jordan Schafer also scored a run with one hit in four at-bats. Lillibridge may have the edge on Prado for the backup job, but that’s not a given yet. |
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The good news is that Hampton could go through four innings without hurting anything. Not only did he pitch that long, he looked good. His pitches had movement and he reported feeling good after his outing. Bobby Cox was even more impressed. After a reporter mentioned that Hampton looked “solid,” Cox responded with the following quote:
“More than that, he had no-hit stuff today. His ball is really sinking. I don’t know if I’ve seen him that good since he’s been with us. Lot of strikes, ton of ground balls. I’m pleased, put it that way. More than pleased.”
If Cox is that pleased, we can at least take some hope in Hampton’s stuff. If he can stay healthy, he’s going to be pretty good this season. We can pretty much coin the new saying - “Smoltz, Hudson, Glavine, pray for old man Hampton.” Or something of the sort.
Next up for the Braves, Jo-Jo Reyes will try to not stink it up like he has recently. He’ll do it against the Astros on Wednesday. The Braves get tomorrow off.
Tags: Brent Lillibridge, Martin Prado, Mike Hampton, Preseason
Posted in Game Analysis |
