DENVER, Aug. 24 (UPI) -- Mike Hampton never had that kind of luck when he pitched regularly at Denver's Coors Field.
Gary Sheffield stroked a three-double to highlight a five-run fifth inning to help make Hampton a winner in his return to Colorado as the Atlanta Braves posted a 5-4 victory over the Rockies.
After signing an eight-year, $121 million contract in 2000, Hampton endured two disastrous seasons with the Rockies, going 21-28 with a 5.75 ERA.
Hampton (12-5), who was booed by the crowd at Coors Field, battled through 6 2/3 innings to win his ninth straight decision. He allowed four runs and 11 hits, walking two and striking out three.
Trey Hodges and Kent Mercker combined for 1 1/3 scoreless innings before John Smoltz struck out the side in a perfect ninth for his 44th save in 47 chances.
