Right-hander Jair Jurrjens is listed as the probable pitcher for the final game of the season Sunday in Houston, but manager Bobby Cox said Wednesday that he was considering asking left-hander Mike Hampton if he'd like that last start.
The Braves were off Thursday, so Hampton would be pitching on his regular rest, and Jurrjens, a rookie, has racked up more innings than he is used to. Hampton, aware of the possibility, is considerate enough to say he would discuss the option with Jurrjens. Jurrjens, for his part, is considerate enough -- and tired enough -- to want Hampton to have another outing to hone his long-sidelined skills.
What's in it for the Braves? Two things: not ruining an outstanding but fatigued rookie pitcher, and having another look at Hampton, who will be a free agent after the season.
Hampton's cutter was back in his latest start, Tuesday against the Phillies, a 3-2 win on the road.
The Braves would love to be able to count on Hampton coming back, given what they've seen of him so far. Cox, not mincing word about Hampton's possible return in 2009, put it this way:
"There's been conversation, yes."
