ajcsportstalk

By Tami

December 2, 2008 9:39 AM | Link to this

Yes, I’m disappointed. If Hampton was genuinely sincere at the time he made the comment that he would stick with the Braves because of their patience, then he wouldn’t have looked nor gone elsewhere. Now the question is: Was he about to go through or had divorce proceedings already begun at the time he made the comment? If yes, then good riddance. If not and this has become a recent development, then I guess I can understand his change of heart somewhat. Now, not signing Peavy, not signing the Japanese pitcher and now not signing Hampton…will this end up haunting the Braves? I understand not giving up the FARM to get big name pitchers. But, does this set the Braves waaay back? I think this presents Wren with his first really big challenge yet. Makes you wonder: What would Schuerholz have done?

By MDIII

December 2, 2008 9:42 AM | Link to this

If he had a shred of decency he would have pitched for the Braves for $1 this year. It is the least he could do after collecting money to sit on his short a$$. However, it doesn’t suprise me. Just another overpriveleged athlete who probably believes he deserves more than $2MM. The good thing is, he won’t make it out of Spring training becuase he’ll pull a groin, shoulder, pec or come up with a severe case of jock itch. Good riddance.

By carmatter

December 2, 2008 9:43 AM | Link to this

Ouch. I know there’s no loyalty in the sports business, but good grief. Taking less money to leave the team that’s been paying you to sit. Wow. Do I remember that he said something about “owing the Braves” during the summer?

By Dont let the door hit ya...

December 2, 2008 9:44 AM | Link to this

Why would we want him back? So he can take more of our money and ride the pine? He probably pulled a muscle signing his contract.

By Clamor

December 2, 2008 9:45 AM | Link to this

Hampton is healthy temporarily but I predict he will spend as much time on IR as he does on their active roster. He is typical of the ingrates in professional sports but MLB owners have no one to blame but themselves. No one held a gun to their heads and made them pay these punk players their astronomical salaries. When the MLB players association contract comes up for renewal, get a hardnosed negotiator for management and be willing to close the season down until you get a reasonable contract. Pretty simple, reslly!

By charlie

December 2, 2008 9:50 AM | Link to this

Mike Hampton is a totally me first type of jerk who I am glad to see go. All you have to do is sook at the Atlanta Falcons and see how much better they are doing since throwing out the trash.

On good thing comes out of this though and that is I never watched the Astro games before, but now I will to root against Mikey

By GOOD BYE

December 2, 2008 9:54 AM | Link to this

A waste of Breath talking about that worthless wimpy pitcher…..However big concerns of the Braves new GM just what is he doing.. No signings whatsoever and we have tons of money. This guy is turning about to be a puppet or a bust can figure it out….No big names signed to fill the multitude of holes we had all over the field. Cmon WHAT GIVES?

By Wayne

December 2, 2008 9:55 AM | Link to this

Hampton to the Braves: “BOHICA”

He will probably have a great year, because he has nothing left to “pull”. This has to be his last trick.

By Falcon Fan

December 2, 2008 10:04 AM | Link to this

I don’ blame him i’d take all the money he’s been paid and leave. Suckers

By Falcon Fan

December 2, 2008 10:08 AM | Link to this

Hey Good bye—-You no the deal.

By Mort Merkel

December 2, 2008 10:08 AM | Link to this

I think they really coulda used that guy. Maybe they should have signed his estranged wife to a half-million dollar personal services contract to mover herself and the kids to Atlanta.

By Jason

December 2, 2008 10:08 AM | Link to this

uhmm lets see.. $2 million a year.. If they are lucky he’ll pitch 3 games.. So thats roughly $666,666 a start.. Life is grand..

By MariofromStnMtn

December 2, 2008 10:09 AM | Link to this

Good bye! He was a sore spot on our team for years with all the injuries. Can’t wait to see him on the disabled list again, loser.

By Ben

December 2, 2008 10:11 AM | Link to this

Hot trash. Thanks for nothing Mike. Don’t let the door knob hit you in the vajayjay. You are a huge lighthouse beacon of a big problem with baseball.

By Simple Jack

December 2, 2008 10:17 AM | Link to this

Na na na na, na na na na, hey hey hey, good-bye

By Mark

December 2, 2008 10:18 AM | Link to this

I liked Hampton and have been pulling for his recovery and return to pitching. I feel he OWES the Braves big time for their patience - screw him - can’t wait to see him back on the DL!

By Chad

December 2, 2008 10:21 AM | Link to this

Good riddance to the loser. Tells us one day he’s sticking with us for being patient and then literally sticks it to us. We need to get back to the old days of sticking it to guys like the Justice days instead of always getting it stuck to us.. i.e. Glavine, Hampton etc. huumm I’m seeing a trend here by getting it stuck to us by pitchers.

By Peter

December 2, 2008 10:24 AM | Link to this

Lame Jerk……….

No different than Tom Glavin……..both are ME FIRST glutton’s as individuals………

Mike got tons of money, then when healthy split……no wonder he is in the throws of a divorce………I hope he gets taken to the cleaners.

A very FAT Tom Glavin wasted our money last year…..What trimester was he in before the baby was born ?

I really will blame “STUPID Decisions” from our office for both mistakes…….

By Dave

December 2, 2008 10:24 AM | Link to this

What a total loser!!! The least he could have done was to agree to play one year for the Braves at a salary of $1. That would be a small token for what the Braves had to endure with this jerk for the last several years. He owes this organization big time.

I’m tired of everybody saying that it’s a business. It is but there is also something called loyalty. He should have felt a little loyalty to the Braves since he didn’t live up to his end of the contract. Injuries or no injuries.

I say good riddance ya loser. I hope ya end up on Houston’s disabled list as long as you stayed on the Braves.

By Mike

December 2, 2008 10:28 AM | Link to this

Hampton was sincere about staying. To bad the Braves owners aren’t sincere about building a decent club.. This team next year is going to be terrible.

By Rusty Pecker

December 2, 2008 10:29 AM | Link to this

He should be arrested for stealing money from the Braves. I hope his wife takes him to the cleaners! Goodbye loser.

By Bravesguy755

December 2, 2008 10:30 AM | Link to this

Worst signing since Bruce Sutter. Played about as much … good bye. I can understand his want to be closer to his children - this is actually good news - frees up a bunch of money to rebuild the pitching staff. Just as well … except, knowing the Braves luck, Hampton will win the Cy Young next year … typical.

By Shane

December 2, 2008 10:31 AM | Link to this

This guy has been a complete waste of time and money. He should pitch for whatever the Braves were willing to give him. They stuck with him for years of IR time. It is a shame he decided to turn his back on the Braves. Whatever, he probably will tear something in Spring Training and be out for the year anyway.

By Charlie The Unicorn

December 2, 2008 10:31 AM | Link to this

I’m probably going to catch some heat from this, but is there anybody else who thinks baseball is umm….boring? Yes it’s an amazing past-time sport in this country’s history, but I’d rather watch a wood-pecker doing his thing to a telephone pole. I just don’t get how people can sit and watch such a s-l-o-w sport. Hampton has done what anyone in their right mind would do in his position; take the money as long as it’s handed to him. And as long as people continue to buy the $10 beers and hotdogs, it’ll continue. Just like CEO benefits.

By J Rich

December 2, 2008 10:31 AM | Link to this

Turd

By Stephen

December 2, 2008 10:31 AM | Link to this

Watch, now he’ll stay healthy, win 18-20 games in finish top 5 for the Cy Young award. Figures. I hope we can at least get Burnett and have some of our guys like Morton, Reyes, et al step up.

By Hoss1970

December 2, 2008 10:32 AM | Link to this

While one would think that Hampton would feels he owes something to the Braves for the massive amount of money he was paid to stay on IR for so many years, the bottom line is that family comes first. It is a dissapointment on one level as we clearly need all the pitching help we can get and Hampton appears to be finally healthy, but on the other hand, who knows when his fragile body will break down again? Considering he took LESS money to be closer to home as well as to return to the place of his greatest success speaks a lot. I wish him all the best except when he pitches against the Braves.

By MountainDawg

December 2, 2008 10:33 AM | Link to this

It’s kind of a shame, because Hampton was a tremendous athlete with loads of potential. Recruited to play football (DB) at FSU, he won the MLB Silver Slugger award five times (as a pitcher). He was a 2 time All-Star & NLCS MVP as well.

However, late in his career he became a walking “band aid” & plagued with injuries. Although some of his injuries were legit, I think he became too soft. It’s a shame because he was one of the best athletes in MLB at one time.

By Nick Manning

December 2, 2008 10:35 AM | Link to this

I guess he’ s putting his family first, but that family is a whole lot better off with the money the braves paid him to vacation

By Baseball

December 2, 2008 10:38 AM | Link to this

This is a very good example of why I have hated baseball sense 95. I hate baseball and its players are the main reason. Today’s baseball could take a page from the past and actually play for the fans and drop their rediculous pricing to play a game.

By Bloomberg

December 2, 2008 10:41 AM | Link to this

Mike Hampton is a thief and criminal. If he was in NYC I would prosecute him to full extent of the law. I wish him nothing but a terrible life and injuries down the road for the amount of money he has stolen from this organization and city. He is a bad person.

By Ted Richards

December 2, 2008 10:43 AM | Link to this

Glad Hampton is going through the divorce. Hope his wife gets all the money and complete custody of the kids. Hampton deserves to be a vagrant running the streets.

By gary

December 2, 2008 10:44 AM | Link to this

this guy doesn’t really want to pitch, houston won’t get 5 games for their money. good for the braves!

By See Ya

December 2, 2008 10:45 AM | Link to this

Point 1) If he wanted to be closer to his kids who live in AZ…did he even talk with the the ARIZONA Diamondbacks?

Point 2) When he ends back on the DL it won’t matter what city he’s playing in.

By JOE

December 2, 2008 10:46 AM | Link to this

Another bum who took the money and ran. I thought he was sincere when he said he owed the Braves.. 78 million over the last five years to sit the bench.?? WOW!! Apparently no recession in baseball.”Baseball has been very good to me..””

By Bill

December 2, 2008 10:47 AM | Link to this

Not a shock. Does anyone remember Andres Galaraga? He sat out a full year with back Cancer, but the Braves paid him. As soon as he was a free agent, he flew the coop.

It stinks, but not a shock.

By Thedream

December 2, 2008 10:48 AM | Link to this

You people make me sick. Yes, he was oft injured….but is that a direct fault of his? When he was pitching, he pitched well…just had some bad luck. Kind of like…oh ,you know, Ken Griffey Jr with the reds? The Braves offered him more money than the Astros did, but I cannot fault him for wanting to be closer to his kids. I’m living in Seattle now and my family is in Atlanta, and I’d give anything to move to anywhere in the middle of the country to make me closer to them. Good luck Mike, and I wish nothing but the best for you and your family.

By Jeremy

December 2, 2008 10:49 AM | Link to this

I don’t buy the closer to family excuse. The article states that his kids are in Arizona. He’s moving to Houston. What’s the difference between Atlanta and Houston when his family is in Arizona? Both require a flight to get there, and the flight time would be pretty similar. Good riddance…

By jammer

December 2, 2008 10:52 AM | Link to this

What a loser!! He ripped the Braves off for millions of dollars and moves to Houston. How much closer is that to Arizona? Two hours extra on an airplane. i only hope Michelle Hampton pulls a muscle in his eyelid and misses the season. Good riddance and enjoy your millons. Hope it was invested in AIG!!

By Voiceofreason

December 2, 2008 10:56 AM | Link to this

You people amaze me. I too have been frustrated by his injuries and lack of performance. But as a single dad who is active in the lives of his kids, I TOTALLY understand what he is doing. Did you people that call him selfish not read???? He is taking LESS money to be close to his kids. In a ME-FIRST day and age, this is refreshing. He put his KIDS ahead of his WALLET. What the heck is wrong with you people??? If more athletes had this philosophy people would not be so jaded about them. If he has a great year, yes, it will sting a bit, but I find no fault in what he has done in this decision. You people need to get a life or maybe you were just all neglected by YOUR dads and resent what he is doing!

By Green Tea

December 2, 2008 10:57 AM | Link to this

So he was paid close to or about $100M over the last what, 6 years?? Doesn’t he own a private jet to fly to Az or fly his kids to see him? I mean seriously, with that kind of loot why doesn’t he just pay some Nerds at GT to build him a tele-port machine to beam his kids from Az to Atl?? I would….

By Mike Hampton's Agent

December 2, 2008 11:00 AM | Link to this

His number should be retired and hanged in Center Field. His contribution to the Braves has been unmeasurable. Thank you for all your years of service to the Braves organization. Further, Mike Hampton you have been a great role model for the children and charitable organizations of Atlanta. A simple thank you is not enough at this time.

By Jeremy

December 2, 2008 11:09 AM | Link to this

To Voiceofreason: In Atlanta he was a 4 hour flight from his kids. In Houston he is a 3 hour flight from his kids. If he had moved to Arizona or one of the surrounding states I could understand it, but moving to Houston to be “closer” just doesn’t make sense.

By Hampton is a worthless P.O.S....

December 2, 2008 11:12 AM | Link to this

I hope Hampton loses his arm in a car accident…

That would be a fitting conclusion to that disloyal putz’s career….

By No Dawgs Here

December 2, 2008 11:13 AM | Link to this

Good bye and good riddance.

No loss. He’ll just play dead on someone else’s payroll.

Nothing but a big loser.

By ken

December 2, 2008 11:15 AM | Link to this

Call the Cops…

By Voice of reason tosses mike hamptons's salad

December 2, 2008 11:15 AM | Link to this

You are obviously as dense as Mike Hampton…

Be sure to floss and brush after you finish up on Mike….

By cSquared

December 2, 2008 11:15 AM | Link to this

we should retire his number and hang HIM from center field. @ $1.4 mill per win, this was crazy stupid. seems like he knows that too, which is why he’s taking LESS money to play for someone else.

By WIn

December 2, 2008 11:16 AM | Link to this

WOW- I hope he never pitches another inning again. Got paid all that money to be a cheerleader and then bolted. Just what you expect from todays pro athletes.

By Coach

December 2, 2008 11:16 AM | Link to this

All that money won’t redeem his sad legacy. I admire the guys in the trenches, working overtime on Saturdays, to build Atlantic Station. Hats off to the Warrick Dunns, who are known for giving, rather than receiving. To the couple that has $50k in the bank but give $10k to another family so they can adopt a Chinese baby girl. No longer can we direct our children to look at athletes for inspiration. All their money means nothing. They are in their own private poverty.

By Titan

December 2, 2008 11:20 AM | Link to this

What has he been doing the last 4 years? Hasn’t he been able to spend time with the wife and kids while he wasn’t pitching? I assume he could rehab close to home. WOW

By JG

December 2, 2008 11:20 AM | Link to this

Of course he took less money to be closer to his kids. Would’nt you take less money to be closer to them if you had just raped an organization for 6 years and multi millions. He no longer needs a lucrative contract, he is set for life, especially after Houston’s insurance carrier gets hit for the 2 mill this year he will earn for sitting on the bench because of @ss splinters

By MWC

December 2, 2008 11:23 AM | Link to this

Bottom line.. He is an ingreat,spoiled,greedy,jack@@f!!! I hope he snaps a twig in spring training. If being closer to his family is that important, RETIRE

By Rob

December 2, 2008 11:28 AM | Link to this

Good, I’m glad he’s leaving. Do you really think he will pitch much for Houston? No. I’m sure they will pay him to do nothing just like here. You are a loser Mike, thanks for leaving.

By Coach

December 2, 2008 11:31 AM | Link to this

Voiceofreason - What about our soldiers all over this world that would also love to be with their kids but have made commitments to serve?

By pj

December 2, 2008 11:35 AM | Link to this

I say good bye! He was not worth keeping around! Maybe his new team can pay him for being hurt all the time now!

By Jay

December 2, 2008 11:36 AM | Link to this

That’s a sad commentary on professional baseball. I remember as a kid aspiring to be a pro ballplayer. The complete lack of decency, integrity and honesty demonstrated by Hampton with this decision clearly shows how removed from the real world professional athletes are. If I had a son, it would be difficult at this time to encourage participation in a profession that apparently ruins the integrity of the individual.

By WP

December 2, 2008 11:37 AM | Link to this

Good riddance, he’ll probably be on the DL in spring training

By Voiceofreason

December 2, 2008 11:40 AM | Link to this

Coach,

Are you SERIOUSLY comparing a MLB player to a soldier? I guarantee you if they had a CHOICE which Hampton DID, they would CHOOSE to serve close to their family. His contract was up, he could choose where he went and he opted for closer to his kids. Soldiers are SENT overseas. As a child of a former military father I understand that. They are not ASKED to go. You need to think about statements like the one you made before posting them. That is a crazy comparison.

By Uff

December 2, 2008 11:40 AM | Link to this

Mr. Hampton,

I have respected your career and also respected the fact that you’ve battled back time and time again from injuries. What I can’t respect is the fact that you got paid millions and millions of dollars the past few years and now, after we offer yet another solid contract, you leave town. Family does come first, I can agree with that, but you owe the Braves. We were handcuffed from bringing in other talent because we were paying you ridiculous money to be a guy that started a handful of games the past 5 years. TO, AROD, OCHO CINCO, SPREEWELL, and now add MIKE HAMPTON to the list of spoiled, arrogant, selfish players…You have lost my respect. I hope you somehow read this and strain your eyeball muscle and miss spring training.

By PMC

December 2, 2008 11:47 AM | Link to this

It’s time to boo that ham armed loser relentlessly. Your Family is your excuse? Really? How much money did you make while NOT PITCHING?

The braves have NO ONE to start next year. If they do manage to spend some of that money they promised to spend… it’s on AJ Burnett??? So now we get Mike Hampton Arm syndrome squared? Really?

Go ahead and write off next year Braves fans… the Braves already have.

If they don’t get Jake Peavy… get ready for 70 or 80 losses.

By AJ

December 2, 2008 11:49 AM | Link to this

The Braves should have known this would happen. They stood by him through all of his health problems and when he returns to health he moves on. Granted he wants to be nearer to his family, but if that was the real issue, why did he not ask to be traded 3 years ago!

By P

December 2, 2008 11:49 AM | Link to this

move your kids to where you are if you want to be closer to them douchebag.

I hope your freaking arm falls off in Houston.

By oldguy

December 2, 2008 11:53 AM | Link to this

Should anyone be surprised??? Mike should take a page from Jack Lamberts book. Jack was the linebacker for the Steelers and suffered a debilitating turf toe injury and was on the DL. When the team sent him a check he sent it back. Told Mr Rooney “I get paid to play. If I dont play then you dont pay” Mike has proven once again that the “Me first generation” is alive and well and fleecing everyone in sight. Good riddance…who wants that kind of virus in Bobbys locker room.

By mark

December 2, 2008 11:57 AM | Link to this

Hampton showed that he has no class and no integrity. The Braves or any other team is best without him. I think the late Vince Lombardi said it best. He called it addition by subtraction.

By Tim

December 2, 2008 11:58 AM | Link to this

Classic example of why teams should cut player, like Mike Hampton, who are hurt and take several years to recover. The Braves and their insurance policy paid Hampton good money while he was hurt. Like they say inside football circle…he robbed the Braves without a mask.

By Cecil L

December 2, 2008 12:05 PM | Link to this

What a way to repay a team who was very patient with him and gave him every opportunity pitch, get well, pitch, get well, pitch, get well. I guess now the Astros can pay his medical bills. I say good bye, bring on the better, younger arms.

By Late to Fool

December 2, 2008 12:07 PM | Link to this

Hmmm. Wants to live closer to his kids? Sounds a lot like when he claimed he picked the Rockies because of the Colorado school system. He’s a fraud in every way.

By Patrick

December 2, 2008 12:08 PM | Link to this

That’s well served for the Braves. Pay a guy $1.4 MIL A GAME while injured for over 75% of those games, and not extend a contract offer to a multi-year Gold Glover like Andrew Jones. The Braves suck, and will for years to come. They may win a division title here & there, but no World Series.

By Mike Lum

December 2, 2008 12:08 PM | Link to this

What would you have done in his shoes? Play for nothing? And tell me there wouldn’t have been a larger outcry had the Braves re-signed Hampton - spend $2 million on a pitcher who’s missed the last 3 seasons? Did he not need a change of scenery?

Sounds like the only thing that would make most of you happy were if Hampton was never injured again AND paid the Braves to play for them!

By janie Hopwood

December 2, 2008 12:09 PM | Link to this

I think all of the ballplayers make too much and that maybe we should shut down mlb and let ev eryone go and start over at reasonable salaries. That oncludes the front office. If Atlanta can afford a high pjriced team like the braves, falcons, or hawks, then they can pay their city workers instead of sending them home with nothing.

By David C.

December 2, 2008 12:12 PM | Link to this

GOOD! Who cares he is a bum who hasn’t played in SIX years. Let him go get paid to sit on his A$$ some where else!!

By GTSteve

December 2, 2008 12:14 PM | Link to this

I defended Mike Hampton for 3 years every chance I had, NEVER AGAIN.

By elainer7

December 2, 2008 12:16 PM | Link to this

The athletes make too much because most people will sell their first born to go to a game and have a few beers. See ya Hampton. Go sit on the bench for some other team.

By willie B

December 2, 2008 12:18 PM | Link to this

UM lets see…Look out Houston…I think somthing will hurt before his 1st pitch.. lets wait to see…

By Tony C.

December 2, 2008 12:19 PM | Link to this

Wow. thank goodness…I thought we were going to have t pay Mrs. Hampton to ride the pine for another year.

At least it looks like Mrs. Hampton will get some of the money we paid her wife to play at being a pitcher.

Can’t wait to watch the ball sail “over the hill” while Mrs. Hampton suddenly realizes she strained her little toe tendon.

By Cancer

December 2, 2008 12:24 PM | Link to this

Mike, I’m coming for you…

Bwahahahahahahaha…..

By dre

December 2, 2008 12:25 PM | Link to this

He gets the last laugh and the laugh is on the fools who continue to plunk down money to see pro baseball.

By Bulldog

December 2, 2008 12:29 PM | Link to this

Seriously, how much closer is Houston than Atlanta to Arizona if you’re flying? Houston traffic is horrible and there aren’t that many flights as compared to Atlanta. Wonder what the real reason is?

By TNJeff

December 2, 2008 12:36 PM | Link to this

Is Colorado going to be paying his wife part of his alimony settlement?

I wish him the worst!

By ttough44

December 2, 2008 12:38 PM | Link to this

Hey Braves fans. It is just as well. Mark my words he will be injured again. The Braves have wasted enough time on Hookie Hampton. I question his desire to really be a force to be reckoned with anymore. Too bad the Braves stood by ole Hamhock… What a looser…no loyalty to those who bottle fed ole hookie hampton….buenos dias senior hookie hampton…..

By Mark30339

December 2, 2008 12:48 PM | Link to this

Shameless bum. He cashed 78 million in payroll over 6 years when Braves money is combined with the Rockies and Marlins. So with all the down time due to injury du jour and all that cash, Mrs. Hampton wants to clean him out too? Poor girl just can’t make a living on that paltry 2 million salary from Houston, not after cashing 13 mil per year. So if he lost a third to taxes, spent a third and saved a third, then Mrs. H wants to poach her half of the savings AND hook him for child support. Take your divorce drama, your balsa wood arm, and your medical plan and go. Let Braves fans close this ugly chapter.

By bill

December 2, 2008 12:51 PM | Link to this

Well, based on this divorce thing, I guess all his injuries affected his performance on and off the field. (lol) I don’t wish him any physical harm but I do hope that he has zero success on the baseball field. I’m glad that I don’t know him personally.

By J

December 2, 2008 12:53 PM | Link to this

Mike Hamptons kids reportedly taking deal to move to atlanta to be further away from Hampton. They don’t want to catch anything from that loser.

By Marc

December 2, 2008 12:59 PM | Link to this

I can’t say I’m terribly upset about him going, but I have to admit I’m a bit concerned abot 09’.

This was our projected rotation for 08’:

Hudson, Smolts, Glavine, Hampton, Jurgens

This is our 09’ rotation as of now:

Jurgens, ?, ?, ?, ?

A second year rookie is our ace and altough we do have lots of prospects (Reyes, Lerew, Morton, Hanson, James, Campillo, Carlyle, Bennet); none of them have actually proved that can be dependable big league pitchers.

I like prospects and don’t mind risks, but my God man, this is getting depressing.

By REALITY

December 2, 2008 1:05 PM | Link to this

ITS OBVIOUS NOBODY WANTS TO PLAY FOR ATLANTA.

FIRST PEAVY; NOW HAMPTON.

YOUR GLORY DAYS ARE IN THE REAR-VIEW MIRROR.

HANG ON TO THOSE MEMORIES !

By Drexel Gal

December 2, 2008 1:08 PM | Link to this

No one held a loaded firearm to management’s head and forced the contract that Hampton had. Much of it was paid by previous teams, and other parts of it were insured. The Braves took a risk, and it was their decision —- unlike the bad mortgages that were forced onto lenders by Janet Reno and the Clinton administration. Hampton said he wanted to stay, and now won’t. That is no different than a front office giving a “vote of confidence” to a field manager and then dumping him. Be thankful that Don Sutton, Skip Caray (albeit via tragic circumstances), and Pete Van Arrogant are all gone, too. Just one more to go: Joe Simpson. Then, the real rebuilding can begin.

By Hallelujah

December 2, 2008 1:16 PM | Link to this

Good riddance you money-sucking cripple!

By CHARLIE FINLEY

December 2, 2008 1:16 PM | Link to this

SAVE THE $40 MILLION EAR-MARKED FOR WASHED UP FREE-AGENTS

CUT TICKET PRICES & CONCESSIONS

KEEP OUR TOP PROSPECTS INSTEAD OF TRADING THEM FOR RENT-A-PLAYERS

LET THE KIDS DEVELOP ON MAJOR LEAGUE LEVEL

WINNING AGAIN WILL COME IN TIME, NOT THROUGH FREE AGENCY & TRADING AWAY FUTURE !

HIRE A MANAGER THAT IS NOT ADDICTED TO OLD PLAYERS !

By Kelly Longhorn

December 2, 2008 1:17 PM | Link to this

I’m looking forward to seeing Zeke Spruill at the major league level.

By NOLABrave

December 2, 2008 1:19 PM | Link to this

Good riddance. He’s Houston’s problem now. I’m sick of watching that sorry bum make millions of dollars to have season tickets in the dugout, not to mention hearing the latest injury to land him on the DL…sore arm, groin, pectoral muscle, papercut, stubbed his toe, sprained his wrist opening a jar of pickles, bit his tongue, nicked himself shaving, stung by a bee, had a bad dream, etc.

After all the Braves have done for him over the last several years despite him not pitching, he should have offered to play for free.

Don’t let the door hit you on the way out, Mike.

By curtisjones

December 2, 2008 1:19 PM | Link to this

Let the midget go. He’s the poster child for the impotence of the 2006-2008 Braves.

By Braves fan since 1967

December 2, 2008 1:19 PM | Link to this

Hey Drexel Gal, If the Braves took a risk with Hampton, not knowing what would happen, then isn’t any team, signing ANYONE taking a risk?? And yhen you talk about play by play people? What is your point? Horible post!!!!

By spareribs

December 2, 2008 1:20 PM | Link to this

That is another good reason the Braves, Falcons, Hawks or any other professional team won’t get one penny from me!

By REBUILD

December 2, 2008 1:36 PM | Link to this

ONE MORE TO GO :

B-O-B-B-Y C-O-X ! ! !

By Bravo

December 2, 2008 1:45 PM | Link to this

Hampton is made of balsa wood. Let him float away and break someplace else.

By Bravo

December 2, 2008 1:46 PM | Link to this

Mike Hampton makes Chipper Jones look like Lou Gehrig.

By Bravo

December 2, 2008 1:47 PM | Link to this

Mike Hampton was looking out for the Braves when he signed with the Astros.

By Mike

December 2, 2008 2:01 PM | Link to this

What a Punk!

By jimjones

December 2, 2008 2:12 PM | Link to this

Don’t you people get it? Hampton is finally going to pay the Braves back with the ultimate sacrifice. You see, the Braves believe they have a chance at the wildcard next season, and their biggest obstacle is Houston. So they’ll send Hampton to Houston, in order to tie up a large sum of money so that they won’t be able to use it on “quality” pitching. Then the Braves get to the World Series through the back door thanks to Hampton. I can’t thank you enough Mike, Thank you Thank you Thank you

By Sarah

December 2, 2008 2:16 PM | Link to this

I’m glad the Braves are finally rid of him. The Braves wasted too much money on an over the hill ballplayer, that was injured more than he played. I’m glad he frees up some money that the Braves can spend elsewhere on younger players who may actually play more and sit on the bench injured less.

By Andrew

December 2, 2008 2:22 PM | Link to this

I hope that he stays true to form and wins one game per 1.39 million … . so he would win maybe one game next year?

How has his name not been more closely associated with roids and performance enhancers? I loved Grant and Javy too BUT … good ridance. He has truely followed the yellow brick road to the land of the lollipop people.

By You got to be kidding me

December 2, 2008 2:24 PM | Link to this

This whole thing will be a moot point once he injures himself again and starts robbing the Astros of their money… I am glad to see the loser wuss go!

By Carroll

December 2, 2008 2:34 PM | Link to this

He is probably reminiscing about the good ole days pitching for Houston…in the astrodome. Wait til he—a lefty—has to pitch in that joke of a park they have now with the left field fence at the shortstop’s back.

By Robert

December 2, 2008 2:43 PM | Link to this

Good Riddance!!!! You lieing JERK!!!!!

By Patrick

December 2, 2008 2:45 PM | Link to this

Let him lose games and blow out body parts for some other sucker team.

By RJR

December 2, 2008 2:55 PM | Link to this

I know I am old fashioned. Hampton had the opportunity to model character and integrity by staying in Atlanta and pitch for $5.00 a year. Instead, he chose the predictable selfish route. It does not surprise me since most “professionals” are so self centered these days. One reason I don’t attend games anymore.

By Maggie

December 2, 2008 2:58 PM | Link to this

I have been pulling for Mikey since he signed with the Braves. He said he owed the Braves……..well, maybe the only way he COULD pay us back was to leave. I agree with most of you. He WON’T last the whole season. Good Luck Houston.

By Scott

December 2, 2008 3:02 PM | Link to this

Hampton was outdone by Glavin. He got $8 Million last year. $4 Million per win. NOt bad work if you can get it!

By Sam P

December 2, 2008 3:03 PM | Link to this

Hampton will be injury free and win 15 games the rest of his career. For some reason his time in Atlanta was cursed.

Also how coincidental for Hampton to take a pay cut while going through a divorce.

By Pete

December 2, 2008 3:07 PM | Link to this

Hampton is a thankless leech. The Braves poured millions of $ into that useless loser and stuck by him with almost ZERO return on their investment. Then, as with all w.hores, he bolts as soon as he could find an open door. Character of a snake. A pathetic rodent.

By Laurie

December 2, 2008 3:07 PM | Link to this

GOOD RIDDANCE! He was the most overpaid pitcher Atlanta has ever had. Maybe we can get a pitcher that will actually pitch a game.

By T

December 2, 2008 3:12 PM | Link to this

I’m VERY disappointed in Mike Hampton. I feel he owes the Braves something for sticking with him all those years. The article I read said the Houston deal was LESS than the Braves offer. I sympathize with wanting to be near his kids but since when did family come before baseball for a free agent pitcher?

By Sam P

December 2, 2008 3:18 PM | Link to this

You do realize Colorado was paying like 80% of Hampton’s salary?

Patrick - Andruw Jones, seriously? He had more trips to the DL than HR’s. AJ was left of the playoff roster and put on the DL to make room for someone who could help the team during the post season. Yea what a great asset to the Dodgers he was!!

By Legend of Len Barker

December 2, 2008 3:31 PM | Link to this

I think a lot of you have it backwards.

Hampton has accepted less money to be nearer his children. I say that’s wonderful for him. Seriously. Really. Family loyalty should come before team loyalty.

I think the Braves are in the wrong. Hampton has been injured how many times? And we offered him two million per annum. Buddy Carlyle was horribly misused last year. I’m fairly positive he can produce as much or more than Hampton and at a much cheaper cost.

If Houston wants to take the risk, good for them. Hampton’s not our issue any more.

Hampton made a whole lot of money to be injured as often as he was. I’m not bitter about him accepting that money. It was his to receive. How much money did we pay Nick Esasky? I don’t hear any bitterness there. Esasky was on payroll through at least 1992 and had all of 35 at-bats for the Bravos and all of them in 1990.

Atlanta signed him, knowing that pitchers are hurt often. Be mad at the Braves.

To me, there isn’t much difference between Hampton and Pete Maravich. Tremendous promise. Paid a lot of money to be a franchise player. Injured early and often. Yet, Maravich isn’t remembered for his injuries. Or for his sometimes lackadaisical play here.

Hampton’s legacy will be his injuries. But to be mad at him is ludicrous. Be mad at the team that gave him lots of money and offered to give him any more money.

Salute Mike Hampton. He’s not your problem anymore.

By Billy

December 2, 2008 3:35 PM | Link to this

If the Braves would not sign these dinosaur players then maybe they would keep a few guys in the rotation healty. Why would the Braves even consider re-signing him? I’m sure the Braves will end up signing some more old guys this year and try to revive their careers and then they will end up on the DL and the money spent will be a waste as always. Surprise, surprise.

By HB

December 2, 2008 3:37 PM | Link to this

He is just a SHORT JERK!!!!!!!!!He will end up on the DL with a hang nail.Hampton you suck!!!!!!!!!1

By brian

December 2, 2008 3:37 PM | Link to this

who’s mike hampton?

By John C

December 2, 2008 3:39 PM | Link to this

Sounds like another Bobby Petrino to me. Takes what he can get and then runs out on the people who were good to him.. Good riddance.

By Nick Esasky

December 2, 2008 3:39 PM | Link to this

What’s wrong with letting the Braves carry Hampton for years paying the hefty salary, then bolting for selfish reasons???

By Certified1

December 2, 2008 3:40 PM | Link to this

A* HOLE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

By the real OLD GOLD

December 2, 2008 4:12 PM | Link to this

Goodbye. Don’t let the door hit you on the way out. Someone will have to repair the worn out spot on the bench Hampton sat on for three years when he hurt every muscle in his body. I think the muscle that was really hurt was his head.

By BullDawg Rick

December 2, 2008 4:14 PM | Link to this

Hampton needs to be arrested for robbery!!

He deserves the A*-tros

By Todd

December 2, 2008 4:46 PM | Link to this

Don’t let the door hit him in the “as*”. He was a big waste of money here and I felt the Braves would have wasted money by signing him only to see him get hurt again. Ofcourse, he will probably be a Cy Young contender now that he is leaving and if he is, it will bolster my opinion that he stayed injured intentionally to try to get released because I don’t believe he wanted to play here.

By Ford

December 2, 2008 5:02 PM | Link to this

God! Doesn’t anyone remember this guy when he was with the Mets? He was a sick out w. them too. The Braves should sue him in court to get back the money they wasted on him. The guys not Hall of Fame material. Period. Never has been. So why would ANY organization sign him? Biggest horse trader in baseball. The Astros should kick his arse to the curb.

By todd

December 2, 2008 5:03 PM | Link to this

He did us a favor!!! Obviously Frank Wren is not smart enough to know what everyone else in Atlanta does: Hampton is soft and it was only a fluke he pitched a few games at the end of the season. As soon as we would have paid him and made plans including him he would have started whining about his injuries. Thank god we do not have to use a roster spot for him. We can now give a rookie a chance who actually might contribute.

By rd

December 2, 2008 5:07 PM | Link to this

Good riddance, loser.

By alan from Atlanta GA.

December 2, 2008 5:11 PM | Link to this

Good riddence to bad rubbish. He took the money and never delivered, it’s time for him to f**k off. Maybe we can get a decent pitcher or two.

By Bama

December 2, 2008 5:35 PM | Link to this

Don’t let the door hit you in the A@@ on the way out…should have been gone two years ago.

By Tony Smith

December 2, 2008 5:42 PM | Link to this

Using his kids as a excuse is lame. By moving to Houston, Hampton showed his true colors and a lack of character. Mike, you should show some loyalty to the team that you STOLE money from.

By Not Again!

December 2, 2008 5:42 PM | Link to this

OK, I understand baseball’s just a business and players and teams have to make business decisions. But I really don’t think I want to spend any more time or money going to watch a business masquerading as a sport.

By JD

December 2, 2008 6:28 PM | Link to this

I used to sympathize with Mike. No longer. I hope he fails as miserably with the Astros as he did with the Braves, but not because of injuries, but becase of his lack of honor.

By Charles

December 2, 2008 6:45 PM | Link to this

Mike Hampton was such a disappointment. He almost makes the Len Barker trade years ago look good in comparison.

By KLT

December 19, 2008 12:15 AM | Link to this

I can’t believe everyone thinks that the Braves are in trouble because of Mike. Mike is one player the GM should choose better players. Mike is a great person who loves the fans, children and his family. He does so much for the children back home. He comes from a good home and none of us know what he may be going through to make the change in teams. I hope he has the best year ever and makes all of you choke on your words. I believe Mike has always done what is in the best interest of the team he is with. I remember when he signed he was so excited and still today he has a love for the game. I can’t say that about many players. There are very few players who even speak to the kids, but Mike always does. Best of luck Mike, with all.