Though Atlanta’s 6-1 defeat of the Dodgers Sunday completed a weekend sweep of the visitors, Braves 3B / social scientist Chipper Jones left the game in the 6th inning with what’s being described as a strained right quad. I’m going to go way out on a limb here and predict Chipper will return to the lineup just a bit sooner than disabled-forever hurler Mike Hampton (as will Tom Glavine), and that’s solely based on the following note from the Washington Post this morning.
Hampton, who hasn’t pitched in the majors since 2005, had another stint in the bullpen prior to yesterday’s game against the visiting Dodgers.
Hampton threw about 50 pitches, with no pain in the pectoral muscle that sent him to the disabled list before he made it to the mound this season. Now he’s trying to get over his doubts.
“Facing competition, I’m going to think about it,” Hampton said. “It’s not an overnight thing. I’ve just got to get to where I just worry about getting hitters out. Mentally, I’m just a little timid maybe. I’m still trying to feel my way through it.”
During his latest bullpen stint, Hampton worked in a few curves and cutters. He hopes to throw even more at his next bullpen session on Tuesday.
“I threw some breaking balls this time, with a bit more velocity,” he said. “If I can do that the next time out, I’ll probably be ready to face competition, whether it be simulated or minor league or whatever.”