Left-hander Mike Hampton traveled with the Braves to New York and played catch at 45 feet Wednesday. He began throwing last week and said there was no discomfort in his twice-surgically repaired elbow. He has missed consecutive seasons after surgeries ? "Tommy John" ligament-transplant surgery in September 2005; surgery for a torn tendon in April 2007 ? and has one season left on his contract. He said his recovery timetable has him throwing from the mound in September and pitching in instructional-league games in October. He plans to pitch in winter ball to be prepared when the Braves open spring training. Hampton, who turns 35 on Sept. 9, also said he doesn't plan to retire after the 2008 season. "After two years of not playing, I realize I'm not ready to retire," he said. "I'm planning to definitely play some more."