TTM Stats
- Sent: 4/27/2022 | Received: 5/14/2022 | 17 Days
- ’92 Topps Stadium Club, ’94 Topps, ’95 Donruss (kept two cards)
- Address: Home (address from Sports Card Forum)
The Story of the Autograph
Chris Hammond’s baseball career was defined by resilience, reinvention, and a remarkable comeback story. A left-handed pitcher who enjoyed success as both a starter and reliever, Hammond’s journey from small-town Alabama to the bright lights of Major League Baseball (MLB) is one of perseverance and adaptability.
Hammond was born on January 21, 1966, in Atlanta, Georgia, but grew up in Alabama. A standout athlete in high school, Hammond excelled in both baseball and basketball but chose to focus on baseball. He attended Gulf Coast State College in Florida, where his talent on the mound began to draw attention from MLB scouts. In 1986, Hammond was drafted in the sixth round by the Cincinnati Reds. He steadily climbed through the minor league ranks, honing his craft and developing a solid arsenal of pitches.
He made his MLB debut with the Reds on July 16, 1990 and made three starts that season. The following year he established himself as a reliable starter, finishing his rookie season with a respectable 4.06 ERA in 18 starts. Over the next few years, Hammond continued to pitch for the Reds, showcasing his ability to eat innings and keep his team in games.
After a few seasons in Cincinnati, Hammond played for the Florida Marlins (in two stints) and Boston Red Sox. However, his career hit a rough patch in the late 1990s as injuries and inconsistent performance began to take a toll. By 1998, Hammond was out of the majors, and it seemed his career might be over.
After a few years away from MLB, Hammond made a stunning comeback in 2002. Signed by the Atlanta Braves, he reinvented himself as a reliever. The transformation was nothing short of miraculous. In 2002, Hammond posted a microscopic 0.95 ERA in 63 appearances, becoming one of the most dominant relievers in the league.
His newfound success earned him a contract with the New York Yankees, where he continued to perform at a high level in 2003. Hammond’s journey from obscurity back to the big leagues was a testament to his determination and ability to adapt.
Hammond went on to pitch for the Oakland Athletics and San Diego Padres before retiring after the 2006 season. Over his 14-year MLB career, he compiled a 66-62 record with a 4.14 ERA, appearing in 4441 games. His ability to transition from a starter to an elite reliever remains one of the most impressive aspects of his career.
Following his retirement, Hammond returned to Alabama, where he focused on spending time with his family and giving back to his community. He became involved in youth baseball, sharing his knowledge and passion for the game with the next generation. Hammond also pursued various business ventures and remained a beloved figure in his hometown.
In addition to his community work, Hammond has been active in charity efforts, using his platform to support causes close to his heart.
Chris Hammond’s story is one of perseverance and reinvention. His ability to overcome setbacks and reinvent himself as a dominant reliever serves as an inspiration to players and fans alike. While he may not have been a household name, his journey through baseball is a testament to the power of hard work, adaptability, and resilience.
For those who followed his career, Hammond’s remarkable 2002 season and subsequent success as a reliever stand out as a defining chapter in his legacy. His impact on the game and his contributions off the field continue to be remembered and celebrated by those who knew him and watched him play.
Chris Hammond’s journey is a reminder that in baseball, as in life, success often comes to those who refuse to give up, no matter the odds.
The Score on Chris Hammond – 7.0
Chris is another great signer. In a way his autograph is both big and small. It starts out super big and ends in pretty much a line, or maybe almost an arrow. But overall it’s a big signature and I love how much of the card he takes up. I’m wondering if he might be signing less cards per request on this one, but it could be a simple miss in his normal signing routine.
Thanks Mr. Hammond! I’m giving this return a 7 overall.
This is my fifth successful return from him. To see the other successful returns, check out these posts:
>>> READ MORE ABOUT MY AUTOGRAPH SCORING SYSTEM <<<
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Information gathered using Wikipedia and Baseball Reference.