Astros Sign Mike Hampton

The Houston Astros signed Mike Hampton to a one-year, $2M contract.

Reportedly, the deal includes performance incentives.

Hampton’s injury-riddled career is well documented, and he’s appeared in only 25 ballgames in the last two years. However, I like this signing immensely. One year for two million? That’s a bargain for a guy who, when healthy, is a solid starting pitcher and a fierce competitor. Especially if you compare the deal to the $6.5M that similarly fragile Orlando Hernandez received last season.

Of course, the Mets could not have signed Hampton — he more or less burned the Tri-Boro Bridge on his way out of Flushing. In Houston, where he is still beloved, and has little pressure, Hampton has an ideal opportunity for a comeback. Win-win for both sides.