Hampton brought back, Blanco deal close

Mike Hampton could be the lefty specialist out of the bullpen this season. (Photo Courtesy: PicApp.com) The Diamondbacks signed reliever Mike Hampton to a one-year contract on Wednesday.  The contract is a Minor League deal that includes an invite to Spring Training. Hampton was signed by Arizona last August after coming back from rotator cuff surgery and he became a pretty nice weapon in the bullpen to close out the season.  In 10 appearances, the 38-year-old didn’t allow a run in 4 1/3 innings.  Right now, Hampton and Jordan Norberto are the only two lefties out of the bullpen. Arizona is also close on a deal with Henry Blanco to be their backup catcher behind Miguel Montero.  The 39-year-old spent last season in a New York Mets uniform where he hit .215 in 130 at-bats.  He may not have a great bat, but he is a great veteran presence in the clubhouse and would do wonders with a young pitching staff.