Chris Hammond's journey through Major League Baseball is a tale of perseverance and adaptability. Born on January 21, 1966, in Atlanta, Georgia, Hammond grew up with a love for baseball that would eventually lead him to the professional stage. He attended Vestavia Hills High School in Alabama and later played college baseball at the University of Alabama at Birmingham.
Hammond's professional career began when he was drafted by the Cincinnati Reds in the sixth round of the 1986 MLB Draft. He made his major league debut with the Reds on July 16, 1990. Initially, Hammond was utilized as a starting pitcher, and he spent the early years of his career in this role. His time with the Reds showcased his potential, but it also highlighted the challenges he faced in maintaining consistency on the mound.
After his stint with the Reds, Hammond was traded to the Florida Marlins in 1993. With the Marlins, he continued to work as a starter, but injuries and fluctuating performance levels led to a transition in his career. Hammond's adaptability was tested as he moved between teams, including the Boston Red Sox and the Kansas City Royals, throughout the mid-1990s.
The turning point in Hammond's career came when he reinvented himself as a relief pitcher. This transition began in earnest during his time with the Atlanta Braves in the early 2000s. In 2002, Hammond had a standout season with the Braves, posting an impressive 0.95 ERA over 63 appearances. This remarkable performance earned him recognition as one of the most effective relievers in the league that year.
Hammond's success with the Braves led to opportunities with other teams, including the New York Yankees and the Oakland Athletics. His ability to adapt to the role of a reliever extended his career and allowed him to contribute to teams in a new capacity. Despite the challenges of transitioning from a starting pitcher to a reliever, Hammond's experience and skill set made him a valuable asset in the bullpen.
Throughout his career, Hammond was known for his changeup, which was considered his most effective pitch. This pitch, combined with his ability to keep hitters off balance, contributed to his success as a reliever. Hammond's career statistics reflect his adaptability and skill, with a career ERA of 4.14 and a record of 66 wins and 62 losses.
Hammond retired from professional baseball after the 2006 season, concluding a career that spanned over a decade and included numerous transitions and challenges. His journey through Major League Baseball is a testament to his ability to adapt and find new ways to contribute to his teams. After retiring, Hammond returned to Alabama, where he has been involved in various community and charitable activities.
⚾