News: Cubs pitcher Ryan Dempster got tagged for four earned runs off seven hits on Saturday against the White Sox. He served up two home runs -- one to A.J. Pierzynski and the other to Dayan Viciedo -- both in the third inning. Dempster struck out three batters and issued three free passes while he was on the mound. The Cubs would try to rally late, but fell short, 7-4. "Just didn't pitch well enough to win," Dempster said. "A loss is a loss. I don't really care who is watching. I don't like losing anytime. If there was one person in the stands or there was 40,000 people, to me it means the same thing and that's a loss. I don't take any one loss different than the others." Dempster is now 0-2 on the year with a 2.28 ERA.
Analysis: Dempster is still searching for that first victory as he hasn't been able to get any run support in his starts. He's struck out 44 batters and issued just 14 walks on the year, but without help from his teammates it won't be easy for Dempster in 2012. He will take on the Pirates in his next start, which falls on Friday in Week 8 (May 21-27). In four starts against Pittsburgh in 2011, Dempster went 2-2 with a 5.25 ERA. Fantasy owners should continue to view Dempster as a viable pitching option in deeper mixed leagues.
News: Cubs pitcher Ryan Dempster entered Monday's series finale against the Cardinals having yet to record a win through five starts. That trend continued as he allowed four runs on nine hits over six innings of work in the no-decision. He made it through his first five frames unscathed and was sporting a 4-0 lead entering the sixth. However, the right-hander surrendered all four of his runs in the inning to tie the game. Dempster also struck out five and walked one while throwing 95 pitches, 63 for strikes.
Analysis: Dempster endured his worst outing of the season on Monday as he had not allowed more than two earned runs thus far. He saw his ERA climb to 1.74 as a result and now has a 41-to-11 strikeout-to-walk ratio in 41 1/3 innings. The 35-year-old will likely continue to see poor run support in Chicago but based on his numbers thus far, keep Dempster active in most Fantasy formats heading into his second outing of Week 7 (May 14-20). He is scheduled to pitch next on Saturday against the White Sox.
News: Cubs pitcher Ryan Dempster has gotten off to a solid start this season and was sharp once again on Tuesday against the Braves. He allowed one run on six hits over seven innings of work. The right-hander gave up a triple to the leadoff batter in the fifth before Tyler Pastornicky drove him in for his lone damage on the outing. He was done after throwing 102 pitches, 63 for strikes, and left with the game tied at 1-1. Dempster also struck out seven and walked one in the no-decision. ''I just try to execute my pitches and control the innings,'' he said. ''The other stuff you can't worry about. You can only control one thing when you're on the mound and that's trying to put the ball where you want to put it. If you do that, more often than not, you'll get good results. The more good results you get, the more wins you'll get.''
Analysis: Dempster has allowed just four earned runs through five starts this season but still doesn't have a win to show for it. Along with his stellar ERA, he has a 36-to-10 strikeout-to-walk ratio in 35 1/3 innings while giving up just 20 hits. Run support will likely be hard to come by in Chicago this season but based on his numbers thus far, keep the 35-year-old active in the majority of Fantasy formats. His next start is scheduled for Monday against the Cardinals, setting him up for two starts during Week 7 (May 14-20). In three starts against St. Louis a year ago, Dempster went 1-1 with a 5.29 ERA.
News: According to Elias, Thursday's game between the Cubs and Reds was the first time in MLB history in which both starting pitchers -- Ryan Dempster and Homer Bailey -- celebrated birthdays. However, neither pitcher won on their birthday as the game was decided in extra innings after Cincinnati rallied to tie the game at 3 in the ninth inning. Bailey, who was turning 26 years old, failed to outduel Dempster, who came off the disabled list on his 35th birthday. Dempster, who had been sidelined since April 18 with a quadriceps injury, tossed eight scoreless innings and was in line for the win before the Chicago bullpen blew a three-run lead. He allowed three hits and one walk, while striking out six. Dempster lowered his ERA to 0.95.
Analysis: What a return from the DL. Dempster looked refreshed on the hill Thursday, but he's been pitching pretty well all season. He hasn't allowed more than two runs in any of his four starts and has gone at least six innings every time out. He's doing a good job of erasing memories from a down 2011 season. Dempster has re-emerged as a viable Fantasy start in all formats. Dempster will return to the hill Tuesday against the Braves.
News: MLB.com reports Cubs pitcher Ryan Dempster, on the 15-day disabled list, threw a bullpen on Monday and is expected to return from his quadriceps injury on Thursday against the Reds. "I feel good and ready to go," said Dempster. "I didn't change much today. It's the bullpen, and you can't get game speed, but I just tried to let it go and command the ball, because when you are out that long, miss a couple starts, the toughest thing is to come back and command the ball."
Analysis: Dempster last pitched on April 17 and has a 1.33 through three starts this season. While he has yet to record a win thus far, he is expected be activated for the start on Thursday and looks to be over his quad injury. The right-hander went 2-2 with a 2.81 ERA in five starts against the Reds last season and should be considered a viable option in the majority of Fantasy formats.
News: Cubs pitcher Ryan Dempster, on the 15-day disabled list due to a quadriceps injury, threw a bullpen session on Friday and did some running. He is expected to be activated when eligible, which would be Thursday against the Reds. "Everything went really well," manager Dale Sveum told MLB.com. "His running went well, the bullpen went great. He's ready to come back on his day."
Analysis: Dempster has a 1.33 through three starts this season but has yet to record a win. It looks as though he will return during Week 5 (April 30-May 6) but owners should keep an eye on his status just to be safe. The right-hander has re-established himself as a reliable starter in Fantasy over the last few seasons and should be considered a viable option in most mixed leagues, when healthy.
News: The Cubs placed starter Ryan Dempster on the 15-day disabled list on Saturday due to his right quad injury. Dempster will miss Sunday's start against the Reds as the Cubs turn to Randy Wells to make the start. "He's much, much better, but he still feels it," manager Dale Sveum said to MLB.com. "[The move is] just precautionary. Let him miss a couple of starts and hopefully end up with 31-32 starts when the season's over -- if this thing doesn't linger and he's able to pitch the way he's capable of pitching."
Analysis: Dempster (0-1) held Miami to two unearned runs and four hits in six innings during his last game on Tuesday. Dempster had not complained about any issues following his start, so it's unclear when he first suffered the injury. The veteran right-hander has pitched well recently, but has fallen victim to poor run support as Chicago has amassed just four total runs over his three starts. Dempster remains a quality strikeout pitcher and leads the National League with 23 strikeouts in 20 1/3 innings. Stash him until he can come off the DL.
News: Cubs starting pitcher Ryan Dempster is scheduled to have an MRI on his right quad and is questionable for Sunday's start against Cincinnati, the Daily Herald reports. Dempster (0-1) held Miami to two unearned runs and four hits in six innings during his last game on Tuesday. If he is unable to start, Chicago is expected to turn to Randy Wells in his place against the Reds.
Analysis: Dempster had not complained about any issues following his start, so it's unclear when he first suffered the injury. The veteran right-hander has pitched well recently, but has fallen victim to poor run support as Chicago has amassed just four total runs over his three starts. Dempster remains a quality strikeout pitcher and leads the National League with 23 strikeouts in 20 1/3 innings. Keep an eye on his health status.
News: Cubs pitcher Ryan Dempster has looked good early on this season and that trend continued on Tuesday against the Marlins. He allowed two runs (zero earned) on four hits over six innings of work. The right-hander made it through his first four frames unscathed before running into trouble in the fifth. He would give up a leadoff double and committed a throwing error, which led to two unearned runs. He was done after throwing 100 pitches, 63 for strikes, and left with the game tied at 2-2. Dempster also struck out eight and walked two in the no-decision. “That’s about as good as you’ll ever see him throw a baseball,” manager Dale Sveum told MLB.com. “He probably made two mistakes the whole game, pitch-wise. His cutter was almost as hard as his fastball and his split finger was ridiculous. That was as good as you’re going to pitch.”
Analysis: Dempster has a 1.33 ERA through his first three starts with a 23-to-8 strikeout-to-walk ratio in 20 1/3 innings. But the 34-year-old has received little run support in those outings and is still winless on the year. That could be a problem for him going forward but based on how he has pitched thus far, Dempster should be able to post double-digit wins for the fifth straight campaign. Keep the two-time All-Star active in mixed leagues heading into his second start of Week 3 (April 16-22). He is scheduled to pitch again on Sunday against the Reds. In five starts against Cincinnati a year ago, Dempster went 2-2 with a 2.81 ERA.
News: Cubs starting pitcher Ryan Dempster (0-1) surrendered two runs and five hits in 6 2/3 innings during Chicago's 2-1 loss to Milwaukee on Wednesday. Dempster fanned five batters and walked three as he suffered his first loss of the season. The right-hander carried a shutout into the seventh inning, but was unable to preserve a 1-0 lead and allowed a two-run homer to George Kottaras before he was pulled two batters later. I'm kind of upset with myself because we have a chance to win that game if I don't give up that home run," Dempster said.
Analysis: Dempster was unable to fix his command issues and still had some trouble locating his pitches on Wednesday. The 34-year-old has issued three walks in each of his two outings this season and fired 41 balls among his 106 pitches against the Brewers. Still, Dempster has shown he can still be counted on for a quality strikeout total and has fanned 15 batters this year. He's lined up for two starts during Fantasy Week 3 (April 16-22) and should be viewed as a mid-range option. He's projected to face Miami (road) and Cincinnati (home).
News: Cubs pitcher Ryan Dempster did everything he could on Thursday to put his team in a position to win. He struck out seven batters and issued three walks over his 7 2/3 innings of work. The Nationals got one earned run off two hits with Dempster on the mound. Once the bullpen took over, things fell a part for the Cubs. “He was incredible,” manager Dale Sveum said “He got out of a couple of early jams and after that he was as good as you can get. He had command of his fastball, his splitter, his cutter, his slider. Everything was tremendous. It was really nice to see that he came out and did a great job.” Washington would score in the top of the ninth and win the game, 2-1.
Analysis: Dempster owners are upset he didn't get the win on Thursday, but at least he didn't get tagged for the loss. He put together a solid game and owns a 1.17 ERA after his first start. The season is just beginning, so hopefully this doesn't happen too often to Dempster. The right-hander went 10-14 with a 4.80 ERA in 34 starts a year ago, striking out 191 in 202 1/3 innings. He's well on his way with 10 Ks in his first outing. Fantasy owners should view him as a viable pitching option in all formats heading into Week 2 (April 9-15). His next start should be against the Brewers, a team he didn't fare too well against in 2011. Dempster went 0-2 with a 4.24 ERA in three starts versus Milwaukee.
News: Cubs pitcher Ryan Dempster made his final start of the spring in Friday's Cactus League game against the Dodgers. He allowed one run on four hits with three walks over 4 2/3 innings. Dempster, who will start opening day for Chicago, also struck out three. “I’m looking forward to getting up to Chicago and getting this underway,” Dempster told MLB.com.
Analysis: Dempster allowed seven runs over 20 1/3 innings this spring with an 11-to-8 strikeout-to-walk ratio. The right-hander went 10-14 with a 4.80 ERA in 34 starts a year ago, striking out 191 in 202 1/3 innings. He is scheduled to face off against the Nationals on opening day so consider Dempster a viable option in the majority of Fantasy formats. In one start against Washington a year ago, the 34-year-old allowed one run over seven innings of work in the win.
News: Cubs pitcher Ryan Dempster did not look his sharpest in his outing against minor-leaguers on Sunday. He allowed six runs on eight hits over five innings of work. The right-hander also struck out four and walked one while throwing 88 pitches.
Analysis: Dempster is expected to make one more start this spring before opening up the season for Chicago on April 5 against Washington. While he had a down campaign a year ago, Dempster has averaged over 13 wins with a 3.81 ERA the last four seasons and went over the 200-strikeout mark once. The 34-year-old remains a viable option in Fantasy so target him in the late rounds of mixed leagues on Draft Day.
News: Cubs pitcher Ryan Dempster was named the starter for opening day against Washington on April 5, the team announced Friday. Dempster, who is entering his fifth season in Chicago's starting rotation, finished 10-14 with a 4.80 ERA -- matching his highest mark with the Cubs.
Analysis: Dempster's designation is a little surprising considering his subpar campaign last year, which was his first losing season as a starter since 2003 with Cincinnati (3-7). The veteran right-hander has struggled over his past two Cactus League outings and permitted five runs and 12 hits in that span for a 3.68 ERA. Fantasy owners should target the aging Dempster in the later rounds of most drafts for the upcoming season.
News: Cubs pitcher Ryan Dempster saw his most extensive work of the spring in Tuesday's Cactus League game against the Rangers. He allowed two runs on four hits over six innings of work. The right-hander also struck out three and walked two. "He had great fastball command," manager Dale Sveum said. "When he has his command, up, down, away, he can be really tough. There are not too many people who work harder. It's impressive, the work ethic, the drive that he has."
Analysis: Dempster has allowed six runs over 14 2/3 innings so far this spring with an 8-to-5 strikeout-to-walk ratio. He went 10-14 with a 4.80 ERA in 34 starts a year ago but had posted an ERA under 4.00 in the three seasons prior. As one of the few starters in Chicago guaranteed a spot in the rotation entering 2012, he looks to be a lock to made 30-plus starts again so consider Dempster a late-round pick in mixed leagues on Draft Day.
News: Cubs pitcher Ryan Dempster was hit hard on Thursday against the Diamondbacks. He was tagged for eight hits over his 3 2/3 innings of work. Dempster allowed three earned runs and issued one walk in the contest. Henry Blanco hit a homer off Dempster in the fourth inning, ending his time on the mound. "Just executing pitches more consistently," Dempster said. "I felt today I'd throw a good one, bad one, good one, bad one and go back and forth. I threw some really good pitches and some stuff that I was trying to do worked well, made a few mistakes. It was a good work day." Dempster managed to strike out three batters as well, but Arizona would go on for the 12-2 win.
Analysis: Dempster now owns a 4.15 ERA this spring and is 1-1. The veteran may last longer on Draft Day this year after he went 10-14 with a 4.80 ERA in 2011. That was his first losing season since 2007 and one of his worst campaigns since joining the Cubs in 2004. Fantasy owners should view Dempster as a late-round choice on Draft Day.
News: Cubs starting pitcher Ryan Dempster twirled three scoreless innings during Chicago's 6-1 victory over a Milwaukee split-squad in Cactus League play on Saturday. Dempster allowed two hits and walked two batters in his second spring start. He also greeted former teammate Aramis Ramirez with a fastball toward the helmet before getting the Brewers’ third baseman to ground into a double play. “I’m going to face those guys a lot during the year,” said Dempster, who worked in the bullpen after leaving the mound. “There’s no sense facing them more than I had to.”
Analysis: Dempster was 0-2 with a 4.24 ERA in three starts against the NL Central champion Brewers last season. He was 10-14 -- his first losing season since 2007 -- with a 4.80 ERA overall in one of his worst campaigns since joining the Cubs in 2004. "That’s what I’m trying to do is just execute pitches," he said. "As spring goes on, you hope to execute more and more of them. I still have a little ways to go and I’m just trying to get as ready as possible." The aging right-hander is still weak to home runs, but can still pile up strikeouts. Consider him a late-round option in most Fantasy drafts.
News: Cubs starter Ryan Dempster made his spring debut on Monday against the A's. He pitched two innings, allowing one run on two hits. The right-hander also struck out two and did not issue a walk while facing eight batters.
Analysis: Dempster took a bit of a step back last season, posting a 4.80 ERA with 14 losses in 34 starts, but is still in the running for the opening day nod for the Cubs. He has resurrected his career since coming to Chicago in 2004 and has made at least 31 starts each of the last four seasons. While the 34-year-old gives up a lot of gopher balls, he supplies owners with a decent amount of strikeouts and a respectable ERA. Target Dempster in the later rounds of mixed leagues on Draft Day.
News:The Sports Xchange reports Cubs SP Ryan Dempster earned the opening day start last year, supplanting the recalcitrant Carlos Zambrano, who was traded to Miami this offseason. Dempster said he wasn't worried about where he fits in the rotation at the beginning of the season. "If I do, I want to win it," he said of pitching opening day. "Things like that probably used to mean more to me when I was younger. For now, I just want to have the healthiest season I can and as productive a season I can to help us win."
Analysis: Dempster won 10-plus games for a fourth straight season in 2011, but he dropped to 10-14 with a 4.80 ERA -- his highest ERA since the last time he was a reliever in 2007. Dempster still struck out 191 batters in 202 1/3 innings -- the fourth straight season he surpassed 200-plus innings -- so helped Fantasy owners in that area. The biggest thing with Dempster in 2011 is that he got hit hard and walked 80-plus batters. If he can improve in those areas, then his numbers will go back up across the board. It's just that Dempster remains more of a back-of-the-rotation arm in mixed leagues on Draft Day.
News: Cubs SP Ryan Dempster officially exercised his player option on Saturday to stay with the team for the 2012 season, according to CSN Chicago. Dempster finished 10-14 with 191 strikeouts last season as he established a career high for losses. He is still projected to pair with Matt Garza at the top of the Cubs' rotation next year.
Analysis: Chicago, led by new president Theo Epstein, will have to allocate $14 million to Dempster, which is likely above market value for the sputtering right-hander. The 34-year-old finished with a 4.80 ERA in 34 starts last year, nearly a run more than his mark from the 2010 season (3.85). However, he did finish with at least 200 innings pitched for the fourth straight season. Fantasy owners should target him in the middle rounds of 2012 drafts.
News: Cubs SP Ryan Dempster saw his season come to an end on Wednesday against the Padres. San Diego would hit Dempster hard in both team's season finale, scoring nine runs off Dempster in 5 2/3 innings of work. He gave up eight hits, issued four walks and struck out seven. Two of those eight hits were homers, bringing his total to 23 home runs on the year. The Padres beat the Cubs, 9-2, handing Dempster his 14th loss of the season.
Analysis: Dempster's 14 losses is the most he's ever suffered in one season. He managed to win 10 games and posted a 4.80 ERA over his 34 starts, but the Cubs struggled through the year. Dempster did strikeout 191 batters over his 202 1/3 innings of work, so he still held plenty of Fantasy value. Despite his rough showing, Dempster should still be viewed as a mid-to-late round selection on Draft Day in 2012.
News: Cubs SP Ryan Dempster (10-13) permitted one run and four hits in six innings during Chicago's 5-1 victory at St. Louis on Friday night. Dempster, whose winless streak reached nine games, walked six batters and struck out five. It was the third time in his last 10 starts he has issued six walks and he now owns a 184:78 strikeout-to-walk ratio this season. The veteran right-hander allowed his only run in the second inning on a sacrifice by St. Louis SP Chris Carpenter. He then surrendered two hits the rest of the game.
Analysis: Friday's game marked Dempster's fifth quality start in five tries this month and he expects to top 200 innings in his final outing, although he's a deceptive 0-3 with a 3.34 ERA in September. "I'm just trying to finish as strong as I can, and every time out give us a chance to win a ballgame," Dempster said. "I've been on teams that lost 100-something games in a year, so the more games I can help us win that's the most important thing." Fantasy owners should view Dempster as a quality option in most formats for the season-finale Wednesday against San Diego.
News: MLB.com reports Cubs SP Ryan Dempster will make two more starts this season. He will face off against the Cardinals on Friday before pitching in the season finale Sept. 28 at San Diego.
Analysis: Dempster has gone 0-5 with a 4.36 ERA over his last seven starts with a 39-to-19 strikeout-to-walk ratio in 43 1/3 innings over that span. The 34-year-old is having his worst campaign since becoming a full-time starter again but should be considered a low-end Fantasy SP for his final two starts. In two starts against St. Louis this season, Dempster has gone 1-1 with a 7.36 ERA.
News: Cubs SP Ryan Dempster could not get back on the winning side of things on Sunday against the Astros. He pitched seven innings, allowing three runs on seven hits in the 3-2 loss. The right-hander gave up all of his damage in the first when he allowed an RBI single to J.D. Martinez and a two-run base hit to Clint Barmes. He was done after throwing 110 pitches, 72 for strikes. Dempster also struck out two and walked two while earning his fifth straight loss.
Analysis: Dempster has been pitching well of late but the Cubs have not been giving him much run support. He has gone 0-5 with a 4.36 ERA over his last seven starts, with a 39-to-19 strikeout-to-walk ratio over that span. The 34-year-old is having his worst campaign since becoming a full-time starter again but heading into Week 25 (Sept. 19-28), continue to view Dempster as a low-end Fantasy SP. His next start is scheduled for Saturday against the Cardinals. In two starts against St. Louis this season, Dempster has gone 1-1 with a 7.36 ERA.
News: Cubs SP Ryan Dempster was very solid Tuesday against the Reds, but 23-year-old Mike Leake was better. Dempster hung with the youngster though, working seven frames and yielding just two runs while in the game. Unfortunately, the Chicago offense was not able to rally against Leake, who tossed eight innings of one-run ball. Dempster was nearly as good, taking the tough loss despite giving up six hits with minimal damage during the 128-pitch outing. He struck out eight batters and walked six on the night.
Analysis: Dempster has been a bit on the unlucky side in his last three outings, suffering a pair of losses and a no-decision despite tossing quality starts in each game. He has yielded just eight runs in the span, with 19 strikeouts in the process. Dempster holds a record (10-12) that falls two games short of .500 for the first time since May 13, though his arm has been solid of late. Fantasy owners should stick with the veteran heading into his second start of the scoring period on Sunday against the Astros. Dempster has a 1-0 record in a pair of outings against them this season, in which he allowed a combined six runs in 13 1.3 innings of work.
News: Cubs SP Ryan Dempster was winning just about all night Wednesday against the Reds. Holding down a 3-1 lead in the seventh inning, Dempster loaded the bases with Joey Votto coming up to bat. Manager Mike Quade chose to remove him in favor of John Russell at that point. After a sac fly and RBI double, the game was tied. Russell finished the inning after that, but the damage was done and Dempster settled for the no-decision. Dempster allowed three earned runs on 10 hits and two walks over six full innings. He struck out two and his ERA is at 4.74 on the year.
Analysis: Dempster was on his way to snapping a three-game losing streak, but he still hasn't won a start since beating the Nationals on Aug. 11. Dempster has recorded three losses and two no-decisions since that last win as his record stands at 10-11 on the year with his elevated ERA. Dempster may have double-digit wins, but it hasn't been a banner year for the 34-year-old. The good news is that Dempster does start twice in the upcoming Week 24 (Sept. 12-18). Dempster's next start comes on Tuesday at Cincinnati and owners can start him in deeper mixed Fantasy leagues for the two-start period.
News: Cubs SP Ryan Dempster struck out nine on Friday, but it wasn't enough in a 3-1 loss to the Pirates. Dempster got outdueled by Brian Burres, who was summoned from the minors to replace the injured Jeff Karstens. Dempster (10-11) threw 121 pitches in 6 1/3 innings. He was charged with three runs on seven hits and one walk. Dempster was up 1-0 before Pittsburgh had two run-scoring hits in the third inning to take the lead for good.
Analysis: Dempster has lost three straight starts but only one of them has been his fault. In two of the losses, including Friday, Dempster has allowed six runs in 12 1/3 innings, but the Cubs have scored a combined one run in those two appearances. Dempster has been a disappointment in 2011 as far as where he was drafted in Fantasy. He has been more like a back-of-the-rotation Fantasy arm instead of a mid-rotation arm. He will be back on the hill Wednesday against the Reds. Dempster is 2-1 with a 2.37 ERA in three starts against the Reds this season.
News: Cubs SP Ryan Dempster endured his shortest outing since July 20 on Saturday night against the Brewers. He allowed five runs on seven hits in just four innings of work in the 6-4 loss. The right-hander gave up a three-spot in the first, including a two-run homer to Casey McGehee, before giving up one in the second. He would surrender another solo homer, this time to Prince Fielder, in the third and was done after throwing 89 pitches, 62 for strikes. Dempster also struck out three and walked two while taking his 10th loss of the season.
Analysis: Dempster had his streak of six straight quality starts snapped on Saturday and saw his ERA rise from 4.60 to 4.76 on the outing. He is now 4-4 with a 4.24 ERA in his nine starts since the All-Star break. The 34-year-old has taken a step back this season but remains productive enough to keep active in deeper mixed leagues. His next start is scheduled for Friday against the Pirates. In three starts against Pittsburgh this season, Dempster has gone 2-1 with a 5.60 ERA.
News: Cubs SP Ryan Dempster made his sixth straight quality start on Monday against the Braves but he was not as sharp as his counterpart, Jair Jurrjens. He allowed three runs on six hits over six innings of work in the 3-0 loss. The right-hander surrendered a solo homer to Freddie Freeman in the second before giving up an RBI groundout to Martin Prado the following frame. Then in the sixth, he was victimized for another solo shot, this time by Dan Uggla. Dempster, who threw 95 pitches, also struck out eight and walked three while taking his ninth loss of the year.
Analysis: Dempster took his first loss since July 26 on Monday as the Cubs continue to supply him with minimal run support. He has a 3.32 ERA over his last six starts with a 3-2 record. The 34-year-old has really started to settle down after some early struggles so keep him and his 155-to-59-strikeout-to-walk ratio active in deeper mixed leagues heading into his second start of Week 21 (Aug. 22-28). He is scheduled to pitch again on Saturday against the Brewers. In two starts against Milwaukee this season, Dempster has gone 0-1 with a 2.08 ERA.
News: Cubs SP Ryan Dempster was easily on track to earn a victory over the Astros in Houston on Tuesday night. Dempster, who settled for a no-decision as his record remained at 10-8 on the season, allowed just two earned runs on four hits and three walks over seven solid innings. Unfortunately, closer Carlos Marmol allowed a game-winning grand slam in the ninth inning and the Cubs lost dramatically. Dempster threw 117 pitches as he struggled slightly with his command, but the Astros could not get the better of him. Dempster struck out seven in the ballgame and his ERA is now at 4.61 on the year.
Analysis: Dempster has been exceptionally effective over his last four starts and has gone 3-0 over that span with eight earned runs allowed on just 18 hits over 26 innings with 24 Ks. As long as Dempster keeps this up, Fantasy owners really cannot go wrong with the veteran. He's already up to 10 wins and counting and should be active in the majority of mixed Fantasy leagues. That goes double in Week 21 (Aug. 22-28) as he'll be a two-start hurler. Dempster's next outing comes on Monday against Atlanta.
News: Cubs starter Ryan Dempster limited Washington to a first-inning home run by Ryan Zimmerman and went seven innings in a winning effort on Thursday afternoon against the Nationals. He allowed three hits, walked two and struck out six. Dempster won his third straight start and reached 10 wins for fourth straight season.
Analysis: Dempster has now won 10 or more seven times in career. Only Fergie Jenkins (15) and Reggie Cleveland (8) have more 10-win seasons among Canadian-born pitchers. He has allowed just three combined runs over 13 innings spanning his last two starts and continues to put up solid strikeout totals. His ERA leaves much to be desired and he is capable of giving up crooked numbers from time to time, but Dempster remains a solid play in most formats based upon matchups. He will face the light-hitting Astros in his next start, though he allowed four runs over 6 1/3 inning in his only start against the Astros this season.
News: WIth Monday's contest between the Nationals and Cubs being rained out, Chicago has pushed back their immediate rotation. Matt Garza, who was supposed to pitch Monday, will now go Tuesday. Rodrigo Lopez will follow him on Wednesday with Ryan Dempster starting Thursday's makeup contest. Dempster has gone 2-1 with a 4.00 ERA over his last three starts.
Analysis: After giving up six runs over three innings on July 20, Dempster has allowed no more than three runs in each of his last three outings, going six innings in each. He will receive an extra day of rest for his outing in Week 19 (Aug. 8-14) now and will be looking for his third straight win. While his 4.87 ERA is a little higher than the 3.85 mark he posted a year ago, the right-hander does strike out enough batters to overcome some of his shortfalls. Continue to view Dempster as a low-end Fantasy SP.
News: Cubs starter Ryan Dempster was able to overcome six walks in a winning effort on Friday against the Reds. He gave up just four hits and two runs in the outing, striking out five batters. Dempster won for a second consecutive start.
Analysis: Dempster has given up no more than three runs in any of his last three outings, going six innings in each. He has produced healthy strikeout totals and, typically, has been able to stay away from high walk totals. Dempster can be erratic, but he does strike out enough batters to overcome some of his shortfalls. He'll face the Nationals on Wednesday and can be considered a viable play as a low-end starter in mixed formats.
News: Cubs SP Ryan Dempster (8-8) permitted three runs and seven hits in six innings during Chicago's 6-3 victory over St. Louis on Sunday night. Dempster pitched effectively again for the Cubs and notched six strikeouts and just one walk to stop a two-game losing streak. He's racked up at least five strikeouts in each of his last four starts and has 129 total in 134 1/3 innings this season -- on pace to fan 170 batters for the fourth consecutive year. Dempster's only blemish was a three-run homer to Lance Berkman in the sixth inning, but he managed to lower his ERA to 4.96.
Analysis: Dempster has drastically improved his home-run totals since the beginning of the season and Berkman's blast was just his second allowed over his last 10 starts. The right-hander was charged with the same totals (three runs and seven hits) in his last start, but Chicago lifted him to the win with a better offensive showing. Dempster is still being tagged for multiple runs in his outings, however, continues to amass high strikeouts. Fantasy owners should view him as a mid-range option for his next scheduled outing Friday against Cincinnati. He is 1-1 with a 2.08 ERA against the Reds in two starts this year.
News: Cubs starter Ryan Dempster pitched a pretty good ballgame on Tuesday night in Milwaukee. Brewers' starter Chris Narveson was just a bit better, however, and the Cubs offense could do little on the night. Due to that, Dempster was tagged with the loss as he fell to 7-8 on the year. Dempster gave up three earned runs on seven hits and a walk over six innings in defeat. He struck out seven and threw 102 pitches. His ERA is at 4.98 on the year.
Analysis: Dempster had allowed six earned runs in his previous outing but was much better on Tuesday. Of course, the result was the same as he's lost back-to-back outings now for the Cubs. Dempster still strikes out enough batters to matter in deeper mixed Fantasy leagues. He gets another start in Week 17 (July 25-31) and that comes on Sunday in St. Louis. The last time he pitched in St. Louis, Dempster took the loss as he allowed six runs over just five innings.
News: It was an ugly afternoon for Chicago starter Ryan Dempster on Wednesday against the Phillies. Philadelphia beat up on Dempster from the outset as he allowed two runs in the first inning, three in the second and another in the third before being done for the day. Needless to say, in a 6-0 hole after three innings, Dempster ended up taking the loss on the start to fall to .500 at 7-7 on the season. The Cubs veteran starter allowed six earned runs on seven hits and three walks over three innings. All those runs scored without the help of a home run against him. "I felt like they'd get ahead and work the count, make me miss, and when I missed they didn't miss," he said. Dempster struck out five and threw 86 pitches. His ERA is up to 5.00 on the season.
Analysis: Dempster's ERA is ugly and certainly goes with his performance on Wednesday afternoon. That said, Dempster had been shark in his previous three starts, allowing just four runs through 21 innings in those outings with 19 strikeouts. In fact, Dempster had not given up more than three earned runs in any starts since giving up six back on June 3 in St. Louis. Fantasy owners have a decision to make on Dempster heading into Week 17 (July 25-31). Was his start Wednesday something he'll continue? Or will Dempster bounce back? With just one starts upcoming, on Wednesday at Milwaukee, Dempster is probably best left for the deepest mixed Fantasy leagues.
News:Ryan Dempster tossed eight scoreless innings, and the Cubs bullpen avoided another ninth-inning meltdown during Friday's 2-1 win against the Marlins. Closer Carlos Marmol almost blew another save on Friday, but Sean Marshall recorded the final out, stranding the tying run at first base and getting Dempster his seventh win. Dempster (7-6) allowed four hits and didn't issue a walk, while striking out nine. “That’s the Dempster we know,” teammate Marlon Byrd told MLB.com. “He’s a bulldog out there. We always know we’ll get something good out of him. Seeing that today was a beautiful thing.”
Analysis: Dempster has won his last two starts, but he has been pitching well longer than that. He has allowed three or fewer earned runs in seven straight starts. He is finally getting back to the level when Fantasy owners can view him as a solid mid-rotation arm in mixed leagues. Dempster will toe the rubber again on Wednesday against the Phillies.
News: Cubs SP Ryan Dempster made his first start since June 29 on Saturday against the Pirates and pitched well. He allowed three runs on seven hits over five innings of work in the 6-3 win. After making it through his first two frames scoreless, the right-hander gave up a leadoff triple in the third and allowed him to score on an RBI groundout. He gave up two more in the fourth and was done after throwing 87 pitches, 50 for strikes. Dempster could be seen arguing with manager Mike Quade after being pinch-hit for by Tony Campana in the sixth as he appeared to be unhappy about coming out of the game so soon. He also struck out four and walked three while earning his sixth win of the year. "We won the game, and that's all that matters," Dempster said. "So I think anyone who's competitive, you always want to be out there. But at the end of the day, getting W's is all that matters."
Analysis: Dempster looked good coming off his injury and has now posted a 2.41 ERA over his last six starts. While he has won just two of those outings, he has really started to settle down after a rough start to the season and is looking like the pitcher that posted a sub-4.00 ERA each of the last three years. Keep an eye out to see if everything is copacetic with him and his skipper but Dempster should be viewed as a viable option in most mixed leagues now that he is pitching well again. His next start is scheduled for Friday against his former team -- the Marlins. When Dempster faced Florida on May 18, he gave up five runs over five innings in the no-decision.
News: The Cubs announced prior to Friday night's contest against the Pirates that Ryan Dempster will start on Saturday night. Dempster's status had been in question after he missed his Monday start with discomfort in his back and core area. “He feels good and says he’s good to go,” manager Mike Quade told MLB.com. Quade also said he wouldn't hold Dempster back, even though he hasn't started since June 29. "If he's physically OK, I don't see why 100 pitches aren't in his grasp," the skipper added. "If he does fatigue, he'll let us know."
Analysis: Dempster got the green light on Friday and will be back on the mound Saturday against the Pirates. The right-hander as been pitching well as of late, sporting a 1.95 ERA and .231 opponents' batting average in his last five starts. He is 1-1 with a 5.68 ERA in two starts against Pittsburgh this season and can be considered a high-end Fantasy option in most mixed formats, when healthy.
News: Cubs SP Ryan Dempster (back) made it out of his side session on Thursday and expects to rejoin the rotation on Saturday against the Pirates. "As long as I feel good tomorrow, I don't see a reason why I can't pitch on Saturday," Dempster told ESPN.com. "I got a bunch of fluids in me, and I feel good. Just loosen it up and get some stretching in there and hydrate as much as possible."
Analysis: It appears as though Dempster is only going to miss one start, which was expected all along after being scratched from Monday's start against Washington. Dempster has been pitching well as of late, sporting a 1.95 ERA and .231 opponents' batting average in his last five starts. He is becoming a reliable Fantasy SP again, but there is still some risk to starting Dempster on Saturday since he is coming off an injury and a minor stay in the hospital.
News: Chicago SP Ryan Dempster played catch on Wednesday and will throw a side session on Thursday, according to MLB.com. If all goes well, Dempster could start on Saturday against the Pirates. He missed his scheduled start Monday because of discomfort in his stomach and core.
Analysis: Over his last five starts Dempster has posted a 1.95 ERA and is holding opponents to a .231 batting average. Still, he's not a given for the start on Saturday. Fantasy owners should play it safe and keep him reserved. Wait and see how he feels this week and hope he's 100 percent for the second half of the season.
News: Cubs manager Mike Quade said before Monday's game against the Nationals, a contest SP Ryan Dempster was supposed to start before developing a sore back, that he still expects Dempster to return to the rotation before the All-Star break. "Each day is just trying to get him more loose and more mobility," Quade said. "If [Dempster] feels fantastic, we have to start thinking about what we want to do. [A start in] Pittsburgh is probably more likely."
Analysis: Dempster also had a hospital stay on Saturday night because of an intestinal issue, but he appears past that now. Dempster is only being started in 44 percent of Fantasy leagues, so most owners went with an alternative option for Week 14 (July 4-10) just in case Dempster is out through the break. Dempster has been pitching well as of late, posting a 1.95 ERA and .231 opponents' batting average over his last five starts. He is starting to regain some of his lost Fantasy value.
News: The Cubs announced Sunday that SP Ryan Dempster would miss Monday's start against the Nationals because of a sore back and illness. Dempster was hospitalized overnight Saturday after not feeling well as a precaution but is still expected to make one more start before the All-Star break. “He’s under the weather,” manager Mike Quade told MLB.com. “He’s got a little hip and back issue. We expect him to pitch on this trip before the break but we’ll back him off several days. He had a rough day [Saturday] and he looks better today. We’re going to give him a few days and we’ll see how he feels.” Casey Coleman will start in place of Dempster on Monday against the Nationals.
Analysis: This is obviously discouraging news seeing how Dempster was on track for two starts in Week 14 (July 4-10). There is no word yet, however, if he will make Saturday's start against Pittsburgh, as the club will wait and see how he feels over the next few days. Fantasy owners should continue to monitor the situation to see how things will play out. Dempster has been pitching well as of late, posting a 1.95 ERA and .231 opponents' batting average over his last five starts. He is starting to regain some of his lost Fantasy value, but now Dempster is a very risky start for the upcoming scoring period.
News: Cubs SP Ryan Dempster got pulled in the top of the ninth on Wednesday after he gave up a leadoff double to pinch-hitter Pat Burrell. Chicago was still ahead of San Francisco, but closer Carlos Marmol allowed the Giants to tie the game and take Dempster out of the picture for the win. Dempster had only thrown 83 pitches, given up three hits and had retired 20 straight hitters at one point before being lifted. The Cubs would hold on for the 2-1 win, but Dempster would earn the no-decision. "We won the game. That's the most important thing," Dempster said. "A nice win after losing a doubleheader yesterday, to come back and go out there and win a game against a tough pitcher like that." Manager Mike Quade said he wanted Dempster to get the win and go the distance, if possible. "I wanted to give him a shot. A walk or an extra-base hit in that situation, and I think I got to get Marmol in the game. A single? Maybe you let him try to pitch through it, at least another hitter," Quade said. Dempster struck out six and didn't walk a batter in his eight innings on the mound.
Analysis: Dempster hasn't won a game since June 8 against the Reds, but has just one loss since then. Over his last four outings Dempster has allowed six earned runs through 26 1/3 innings, good for an ERA of 2.05. Dempster is slated to start on Monday in Washington, making him eligible for two starts in Week 14 (July 4-10). In 22 appearances -- 14 starts -- Dempster is 8-1 with a 2.97 ERA. Fantasy owners should continue to view Dempster as a low-end SP option moving forward.
News: Cubs SP Ryan Dempster had another decent outing in his start against the Royals on Friday night. He pitched six innings, allowing four runs (two earned) on nine hits. The right-hander gave up an unearned run in the second for his only damage over his first three frames. Then in the fourth, he surrendered a two-run homer to Jeff Francoeur before giving up an RBI single to Melky Cabrera. He left with the game tied at four and did not factor into the decision. Dempster also struck out four and walked one while lowering his ERA to 5.31.
Analysis: Dempster has earned just one win over his last four starts but has posted a 2.22 ERA over that span with 25 strikeouts in 24 1/3 innings pitched. It looks as though he is finally starting to settle down after some early-season struggles, but run support continues to be a problem for the 34-year-old. Keep an eye on his progress going forward to see if he can add to his five wins and continue to view Dempster as a low-end Fantasy SP. His next start is scheduled for Wednesday against the Giants. When Dempster faced San Francisco on May 13, he struck out 11 over six innings for the win.
News: Cubs SP Ryan Dempster (5-6) surrendered three runs and eight hits in 5 1/3 innings during Chicago's 4-3 loss to the Yankees on Saturday. Dempster struggled with locating his pitches throughout the outing and issued a season-high six walks while fanning six batters. The walk total was high highest since June 17, 2009 against the White Sox in another interleague matchup (six). Dempster, who tossed a season-high 119 pitches, left in the sixth inning with the game still tied at 2 but was accountable for runners on the corners. However, RP James Russell allowed a sacrifice fly to Curtis Granderson for the third run charged to Dempster.
Analysis: Dempster entered the game having yielded just one walk in each of his last two starts as he permitted just one run over a combined 13 innings. The veteran right-hander seemed to be past his command issues from earlier this season and also registered 15 strikeouts in his last two games. He also continued to show improvement limiting home runs and was not taken deep for the third game in a row -- a season best. Fantasy owners should consider him a viable option in deeper mixed leagues for his next projected start Friday at Kansas City. Dempster is 2-2 with a 7.53 ERA in seven road starts this year.
News: Cubs SP Ryan Dempster put together his second straight solid start in Monday's series opener against the Brewers. He pitched seven scoreless innings, allowing just four hits while striking out seven. Unfortunately for the right-hander his counterpart, Randy Wolf, also tossed seven scoreless frames and both left with the game tied at zero. Dempster, who experienced problems with his hip while warming up in his last outing, threw 109 pitches, 68 for strikes, and walked one in the no-decision.
Analysis: Dempster has allowed just one earned run in 13 innings pitched over his last two starts and has been able to lower his ERA from 6.32 to 5.48 over that span. If he hadn't given up up six runs on June 3, he would have a nice stretch of solid pitching going. The 34-year-old is too good a pitcher to be down for long and usually gets better as the season goes on. Consider him a viable option in deeper mixed leagues for his second start of Week 11 (June 13-19). He is scheduled to pitch again on Saturday against the Yankees at home. Dempster is 3-3 with a 4.13 ERA in eight starts at Wrigley Field this season.
News: MLB.com reports Cubs SP Ryan Dempster was able to run without any problems in his injured right hip on Thursday and is expected to make his next scheduled start on Monday against the Brewers. "He did his running today and everything led me to believe he's on track to start in five days," manager Mike Quade said. The right-hander picked up his fifth win of the year on Wednesday, allowing one run on three hits over six innings against the Reds. He also struck out eight and walked one while lowering his ERA to 5.96.
Analysis: Dempster experienced problems with his hip while warming up on Wednesday but it certainly did not affect his pitching as he was able to run his record to 4-1 over his last six starts. He has posted a 4.37 ERA over that span with 37 strikeouts and 11 walks in 35 innings pitched. He appears to be settling down after a rough start to the season and lines up as a two-start option for Week 11 (June 13-19). With games against the Brewers and Yankees on tap, continue to view Dempster as a low-end Fantasy SP. In five starts against Milwaukee a year ago, Dempster went 4-0 with a 2.23 ERA.
News: Cubs starter Ryan Dempster went six innings on Wednesday against the Reds in Cincinnati for his fourth win in his last five decisions, despite having trouble with his right hip during warmups, reports ESPN.com. "It wasn't a lot of fun warming up out there," Dempster said. "But I was able to hang in there and get a win today. It wasn't even bothering me when I woke up, just when I was warming up. Hopefully I'll be alright. It's just a little strain, but I think it will be good. One of those things where it just got tight. I was having trouble pushing off my right leg. I took a little bit of a breather and I was able to get back on the mound and make pitches. I wasn't able to push off today, but it didn't matter, just tried to keep the ball down and execute pitches." It was his first win in five decisions as a visitor at the ballpark he used to call home. He allowed three hits and one run with one walk and eight strikeouts to break a tie with Kirk McCaskill for the second-most major-league wins by a Canadian-born pitcher.
Analysis: The hip issue is something to monitor, though it should not cause him to miss his next start. Dempster has had some ugly outings this season that have ballooned his ERA. He gave up six runs over five innings in his previous start at the Cardinals and had a couple of seven-run outings in late April that have done much of the damage to his ERA. However, he is coming off a season in which he posted a 3.85 ERA over 215 innings and he is very much capable of pitching to that level the rest of the way with high-end strikeout totals. He will be a two-start pitcher in Week 11 (June 13-20), facing the Brewers and Yankees, and remains a viable play in NL-only leagues and deeper mixed leagues, when healthy.
News: Cubs SP Ryan Dempster took his first loss since May 8 in Friday's series opener against the Cardinals. He allowed six runs on eight hits with three walks over five innings of work in the 6-1 defeat. The right-hander surrendered a three-run homer to Lance Berkman in the first, and gave up a two-run shot of Albert Pujols in the fifth. He was done after throwing 109 pitches, only 67 for strikes. Dempster also struck out five while taking his fifth loss of the season. "They did a good job of grinding out a lot of at-bats," Dempster said. "I made a couple to mistakes to some pretty good hitters and they made me pay."
Analysis: Dempster looked as though he was settling down after a couple of solid outings but he reverted to his old ways on Friday and has now given up a major-league leading 52 earned runs on the season. His 6.32 ERA is a far cry from the 3.85 mark he posted a year ago, and is disappointing many Fantasy owners right about now. He has been a solid starter since 2008 but he simply cannot be trusted in mixed leagues at this point. Limit the 34-year-old to deeper Fantasy formats until he gets back on track. His next start is scheduled for Wednesday against the Reds. When Dempster faced Cincinnati on May 8, he gave up two earned runs over seven innings in the loss.
News: Cubs SP Ryan Dempster turned in another solid outing during Sunday's 3-2 win over the Pirates. Dempster, who was making his 12th start of the season, allowed two runs on four hits over six innings, with both runs coming courtesy of a Lyle Overbay two-run double in the first inning. The right-hander settled down after that, allowing just four hits the rest of the way. "The first inning started out great," Dempster said. "There is a lot of game left after that. Just keep going out there and getting outs and making pitches." He threw 104 pitches in the contest and finished with five strikeouts and three walks while improving to 4-4 on the season.
Analysis: Dempster once again pitched very well on Sunday and has really turned things around of late. He has now notched a quality start in five of his last six outings and after a disastrous April, is now 3-1 with a 3.08 ERA over his last six outings. He has also racked up 33 strikeouts over that stretch and will look to keep it going when he makes his next start, which is scheduled for Saturday at St. Louis. Dempster has made 44 career appearances against the Cardinals and went 1-1 with a 4.87 ERA in three starts against them last season. With the way the right-hander has been throwing the ball lately, owners should keep Dempster active in the majority of formats heading into Fantasy Week 9 (May 3-June 5).
News: Chicago SP Ryan Dempster allowed one earned run off seven hits in his seven innings on the mound on Tuesday night against New York. Dempster won for the second time in three starts as the Cubs took care of the Mets, 11-1. The right-hander struck out five and walked one batter.
Analysis: Dempster still owns a 6.29 ERA through 11 starts this year, but has seen it steadily decline over his last six starts (minus one rough outing). He's struck out 57 batters over his 63 innings of work this season, which is still solid for Fantasy owners. Dempster's second start of Week 8 (May 23-29) will come on Sunday against Pittsburgh. The veteran right-hander has faced the Pirates 46 times in his career -- 21 starts -- and has gone 6-11 with a 5.74 ERA over those 147 1/3 innings of work. Despite his slow start to the year, Dempster is still a viable SP option in most mixed Fantasy leagues.
News: Cubs starter Ryan Dempster was not able to win a second straight game Wednesday against the Marlins, but the Chicago offense prevented him from taking a fifth loss in the young season already. He never got settled into the swing of things, giving up a first-inning solo homer to Hanley Ramirez to put the team in an early hole. Fortunately for Dempster, the offense battled back to claim late victory on the road, though he was left out of the decision. He was gashed in the fifth inning, giving up three consecutive hits that brought home at least one run. When it was all said and done, the right-hander gave up five runs in off of eight hits in five innings of work. Dempster struck out just three batters while walking two in the no-decision.
Analysis: Dempster struck out 11 batters and tossed a quality start in his last outing, but he looked like the opposite Wednesday. He continued to allow hitters to get ahead in the count, and he couldn't limit base-runners in the final inning he was on the mound, even allowing opposing pitcher Ricky Nolasco to get on base via a hit by pitch. Demptser's record remains at 2-4, but his ERA climbs to 6.91 after the tough night. He will have two starts in Fantasy Week 8 (May 23-29), with the first coming Tuesday against the Mets. Dempster is 9-5 lifetime against New York in 14 stats, though he has one win to his name against them over the last four years. Fantasy owners should consider him to be a low-end option in most formats just because of his track record.
News: Cubs starter Ryan Dempster struck out a season-high 11 batters while issuing just one walk in a winning effort over the Giants on Friday afternoon. He allowed just two runs over six innings while improving to 2-4 on the season. He scattered six hits in the game.
Analysis: For Dempster, it was his first win in six outings. He struggled early in the season, but has allowed no more than two runs in any of his last three starts and had gone seven innings in back-to-back outings entering play on Friday. He seems to be past his early-season struggles that had ballooned his ERA as high as 9.58 on April 28. Dempster will face the Marlins in Florida in his only Week 7 (May 16-22) start, a team he beat last season in his only appearance against them. He went seven innings in that game without allowing an earned run. Consider Dempster a viable play again in mixed leagues.
News: Cubs SP Ryan Dempster posted his second straight quality start in Sunday's series finale against the Reds but it wasn't enough to come away with the win. He pitched seven innings, allowing two runs on five hits in the 2-0 loss. He gave up an RBI single in the second and a solo shot to Drew Stubbs in the fifth for his only damage on the outing. He was outdueled by his counterpart, Johnny Cueto, to earn his fourth loss of the year. Dempster also struck out four and did not walk a batter while lowering his ERA to 7.20. "Anything is better than the way I was pitching," Dempster said. "I like the way I threw the ball. I didn't walk anybody."
Analysis: Dempster is starting to show some signs of life after a horrid start but he could not receive any run support on Sunday and was pegged with his second straight loss. He posted a 9.58 ERA in the month of April, and has a 1.93 mark in his two starts in May. Continue to monitor his progress over his next few outings to see if he can get back on track. The 34-year-old has re-established himself as a viable Fantasy SP since coming to Chicago and should remain active in deeper mixed leagues heading into Week 6 (May 9-15). His next start is scheduled for Friday against the Giants. Dempster is 4-8 with a 4.76 ERA in 23 appearances (13 starts) in his career against San Francisco.
News: After allowing seven runs in just a one-third of an inning in his last start, Cubs SP Ryan Dempster turned in a much better performance during his start on Tuesday against the Dodgers. Dempster allowed just one run on four hits over seven innings, including a RBI single by Matt Kemp in the sixth inning. That would the only run he would allow and he was pulled after the seventh inning with the score tied 1-1. He struck out five and walked just two while earning the no-decision.
Analysis: Dempster was much better on Tuesday night, which was his birthday. Maybe those birthday wishes came true as Dempster looked totally different from the pitcher who took the mound last week in Arizona. The right-hander was able to match his longest start of the season against the Dodgers and allowed a season-low in runs. Hopefully he will be able to build off his latest performance and earn his second win of the season when he takes the mound for his next start, which is scheduled for Sunday against the Reds. Dempster went 0-2 with a 4.73 ERA last season against Cincinnati. Fantasy owners may want to see how he fares during his next start before deciding to activate the veteran in the majority of mixed leagues.
News: Cubs SP Ryan Dempster (1-3) allowed seven runs on four hits while recording only one out in the first inning during Chicago's 11-2 loss to Arizona on Thursday night. It was Dempster's shortest outing of the season by nearly five innings as his ERA ballooned to a lackluster 9.58. Dempster failed to get out of the first inning only once before, recording just two outs on Oct. 5, 2001, for Florida against Atlanta. The veteran right-hander issued four walks and also surrendered a grand slam to Diamondbacks SS Stephen Drew. "We have a lot of work to do in the next five days, that's for sure," manager Mike Quade said. "We need him to pitch better, especially given the situation we're in."
Analysis: Dempster turned in possibly the worst start of his 14-year career as he continued to struggle with his control. The 33-year-old, who has displayed decent control in the last few seasons, has given up 16 walks in 31 innings this year. "No one's trying to figure it out harder than him," Quade told MLB.com about Dempster before the game. "He's just not making the quality pitches he makes when he's succeeding. His velocity's OK. There are no certain signs to look at. I think he's fine." Fantasy owners should consider him a low-end SP option in his next projected start May 3 at the Dodgers. He won his only start against Los Angeles last year while pitching eight shutout innings. However, he's obviously not pitching at that level this season.
News: Cubs SP Ryan Dempster matched up with close friend Ted Lilly of the Dodgers on Saturday afternoon at Wrigley Field. Although Dempster's team got the win, neither pitcher was all that great. Dempster allowed seven runs and nine hits over 5 2/3 innings in his fifth consecutive shoddy start to open the season. He walked three, struck out three and threw 103 pitches. His ERA is up at 7.63, though he avoided taking the loss as Chicago got the win.
Analysis: Dempster has only held the opposition in the ballpark once this season in five starts with eight homers allowed over 30 2/3 innings. He's given up 26 earned runs over that span with 29 strikeouts. The Ks are the only thing keeping him afloat at the moment. Fantasy owners should only consider him in very deep mixed leagues at this point for his one-start Week 4 (April 25-May 1). His next outing comes Thursday at Arizona.
News: Any optimism for Cubs SP Ryan Dempster heading into Sunday's tilt against the high-powered Rockies was silenced right from the get-go. He struck out Dexter Fowler to open the game, but he then walked a batter before Carlos Gonzalez doubled him home. Dempster managed to get Troy Tulowitzki out next, but Todd Helton singled in Gozalez, and Seth Smith homered soon after to put Chicago in an early hole. He allowed Smith to cross the plate again in the fourth, accounting for the fifth total run Dempster gave up on the afternoon. “I’m getting tired of this,’’ he said after using up 104 pitches to get through five innings. “I’m better than that. I’ve got to do a better job of giving our team a chance to win than that," Dempster told the Chicago Sun-Times. “It’s getting really old. I know they’re professional hitters on the other side and you have to tip your hat to them sometimes, but when you throw the ball over the middle of the plate too much, you don’t tip your cap to anybody. You look in the mirror, and you do a better job.’ ’He was pulled after the fifth inning, after giving up the handful of runs on seven hits, while walking a pair of batters and striking out four. Fortunately for Dempster, Colorado's pitching wasn't much better early on, and he collected the no-decision. “It’s not the Demp that we’re accustomed to seeing,’’ Cubs manager Mike Quade said. “But I fully expect that we’ll see it.’’
Analysis: Dempster got racked for the four runs to open the game, but he managed to somewhat buckle-down over the next four innings. Still, the five runs was enough damage to elevate his pitch count sooner than expected, forcing him into his shortest outing of the year thus far. Dempster hasn't gotten off to an ideal start after four outings, with an ERA standing at 6.84. He does have one win to his credit, though he hasn't given up fewer than four runs in a single start to this point. Fantasy owners haven't gotten much from the 33-year-old other than solid strikeout numbers. He will try to buck the trend against the Dodgers in his next start, and the April 23 matchup sets up in his favor. Dempster is 4-0 against L.A. over his last five starts against them, with a stellar 1.05 ERA to boot. Let's hope he continues to dominate the Dodgers, who have not gotten off to a hot start themselves by posting less runs than all but one team in the majors through 15 games. Keep Dempster active in hopes of a change in momentum.
News: Cubs SP Ryan Dempster looked very sharp early on in Monday's outing against the Astros and was able to come away with his first win of the season despite slipping up late. The right-hander allowed just one run over his first six innings but ran into some trouble in the seventh. After striking out the leadoff batter, he surrendered a solo homer to Bill Hall. He then gave up a double before Angel Sanchez launched a two-run shot to pull Houston within one. Dempster was pulled for John Grabow after 6 1/3 innings. He allowed six hits on the outing and struck out nine while walking three. "I felt good tonight," Dempster said. "Ninety-five percent of the time I felt like I was hitting my spots and making pitches."
Analysis: Dempster definitely has his strikeout pitching working this season as he has whiffed 22 batters in 20 innings pitched, but he has also given up 15 runs (14 earned) on 22 hits over his first three starts. The Cubs expected a little bit better out of their ace -- as should Fantasy owners -- so keep an eye on his progress over the next few starts. He has posted double-digit wins with a sub-4.00 ERA each of the last three years so continue to view the 33-year-old as a viable option in most formats heading into his second start of Fantasy Week 2 (April 11-17). He is scheduled to pitch next on Sunday against the Rockies. Dempster is 5-4 with a 6.79 ERA in 17 appearances (10 starts) against Colorado in his career.
News: Cubs SP Ryan Dempster, who was knocked around for six earned runs in 6 2/3 innings in his first start Friday against the Pirates, wasn't much better in his second start Wednesday against the Diamondbacks. He allowed five runs -- four earned -- on 10 hits with no walks and six strikeouts in seven innings but felt like the box score didn't reflect the way he pitched. "I made a lot of good pitches today," Dempster said. "For the most part, I like the way I was throwing the ball."
Analysis: At least Dempster didn't issue any walks. He surrendered four of them Friday, and when he struggles, that's usually the reason why. He was efficient, throwing just 94 pitches, and didn't serve up any homers. The Diamondbacks just found ways to get hits off him. If you own Dempster in Fantasy, you shouldn't panic. He's still an innings eater with decent strikeout potential who could win a fair number of games. He's not the most consistent pitcher in the world, which is what you're seeing now, but he's still worth starting in virtually all Fantasy leagues. His next start is scheduled for Monday at Houston, making him a two-start pitcher in Fantasy Week 2 (April 11-17).
News: Cubs starter Ryan Dempster turned in a shaky first outing on opening day against Pittsburgh, allowing six runs over 6 2/3 innings. Most of the damage was done by a Neil Walker grand slam. He allowed two home runs in the game. Dempster struck out seven batters, but walked four as he struggled with his command at times.
Analysis: Dempster showed a lot of his upside, despite the final numbers, keeping opposing hitters off balance -- hence the seven strikeouts. He got into a jam and paid for it when Walker belted one out after Dempster loaded the bases in the fifth inning. For the most part, however, we expect Dempster to be a top-of-the-line Fantasy starter again this season once the cobwebs are shaken off. He is a premium source for strikeouts and has pitched 200-plus innings in three straight years as a starter. He will face the Diamondbacks at home in his next scheduled start and remains a must-start in any scenario despite the hiccup his first time out.
News: Cubs SP Ryan Dempster made his final start of the spring on Sunday against the Rockies. He allowed three runs and five hits over four innings of work in the 6-4 loss. He walked two and struck out two, throwing 73 pitches. Dempster, who is set to pitch opening day against Pittsburgh, finished the spring 1-1 with a 2.57 ERA. He said he's looking forward to facing the Pirates at home on Friday. "It's a tremendous honor," he said. "There's probably more leading up to it, but once that first pitch is thrown, it's just like any other game. I'm going to treat it like any other start and just be prepared. It's an honor to go out there and do it and hopefully get us a `W."'
Analysis: Dempster went 15-12 with a 3.85 ERA in 34 starts last season and will make his third career opening-day start later this week. The right-hander has revamped his career since coming to Chicago and has won 43 games while posting a 3.49 ERA over the last three seasons. As the ace of the Cubs' rotation, the 33-year-old should be in line for similar success in 2011 and should be considered a solid option in all mixed leagues.
News:Ryan Dempster, the Cubs' opening-day starter, continued his excellent spring by giving up one run and six hits in six innings Tuesday against the Dodgers. He struck out six and walked one, lowering his ERA to 1.88. "My body feels good. My pitches feel good," Dempster said. "I was able to locate well today. I'm looking forward to getting out there again five days from now and tuning up for opening day."
Analysis: Dempster was as sharp last spring, going 2-0 with a 2.13 ERA in six starts before going 15-12 with a 3.85 ERA in the regular season. We can only hope he has similar success in 2011. Dempster has won 10-plus games in three straight seasons and is often overlooked on Draft Day. But he is a reliable arm and shouldn't slip past the middle rounds in Fantasy.
News: Cubs SP Ryan Dempster yielded two earned runs on four hits in six innings during Chicago's 6-5 Cactus League loss to Oakland on Thursday. The veteran right-hander fanned three batters and walked none during his fourth start of the spring. His only earned runs came on a home run by Athletics C Kurt Suzuki in the second inning. "Probably this spring more than any other spring, I've just really been trying to establish my fastball as much as I can and trying to locate it as much as I can, and for the most part it's been going that way," Dempster said.
Analysis: Dempster turned in his longest outing of the spring as he prepares for his opening day assignment against Pittsburgh on April 1. "That's what I'm gearing toward," Dempster told MLB.com. "It'll be no different. It's still about putting the ball where the catcher's glove is and changing speeds. I'm going to try to do that the best I can." With Ted Lilly in Los Angeles, Dempster will be relied on to be the ace of the staff and improve on a 15-12 record from 2010. Consider him an option in the middle rounds of all Fantasy drafts.
News: Cubs SP Ryan Dempster had another solid outing on Friday as he struck out six White Sox in five innings on the mound. Dempster out dueled Mark Buehrle as the Cubbie did not allow a run. He walked one and gave up two hits. "There's always stuff to work on," Dempster told MLB.com. "I haven't thrown a lot of splits yet. You can always get better. It's nice to get some confidence going and build for my next start. Just go out there and have some fun and enjoy it." The Cubs would go on to beat the White Sox, 4-3.
Analysis: In three starts this spring, Dempster is 1-0 with a 1.50 ERA. He seems to be in mid-season form as he's struck out 12 batters in his 12 innings of work. Dempster as been tagged for just two runs on seven hits over that span. He has posted double-digit wins with a sub-4.00 ERA in each of the last three seasons for the Cubs. Dempster is entering his eighth year with the team and doesn't seem to be slowing down. Fantasy owners should keep Dempster on the radar on Draft Day and think about picking him up in the middle rounds of all formats.
News: Cubs SP Ryan Dempster continues to progress this spring as he prepares for the season opener April 1 against Pittsburgh at Wrigley Field. He threw four innings against the Dodgers on Sunday, allowing one run off three hits. He also struck out three and did not walk a batter. "It is never easy. I felt I threw pretty well for the most part, pounding the strike zone. I was up in the zone in the first inning, but got the ball down after that," Dempster said.
Analysis: Dempster, entering his eighth season with the Cubs and 14th overall, has looked good so far in the spring and appears to be ready for his opening day start. There was a meeting early in camp with manager Mike Quade and pitching coach Mark Riggins "and we laid the plan out for how many innings we need to get," Dempster said. The right-hander has posted double-digit wins with a sub-4.00 ERA in each of the last three seasons and should be in for another solid campaign in 2011. Continue to track his progress during camp and consider Dempster a viable middle-round pick in mixed leagues on Draft Day.
News: Cubs right-hander Ryan Dempster started Tuesday's spring game against the Giants, and gave up a run on two hits, walked one and struck out three in three innings. "They asked me if I wanted to go another one, and I said, 'Why not?'" Dempster said, as reported by MLB.com. "I had a pretty quick first inning. I'm not sure I threw a lot of pitches, but it felt good. It's nice to get extended like that."
Analysis: Dempster has already been tabbed the Cubs' opening-day starter. He has as much potential as Matt Garza and Carlos Zambrano to be the Cubs' ace. Dempster was 15-12 with a 3.85 ERA last season. He is 43-27 with a 3.49 ERA, 1.28 WHIP and has struck out 8.2 batters per nine innings in his last three seasons. Consider yourself fortunate to grab a pitcher like Dempter in the middle rounds of mixed Fantasy leagues.
News:Ryan Dempster was selected Monday by Chicago Cubs manager Mike Quade to start the season opener against Pittsburgh on April 1. Dempster was picked over right-hander Carlos Zambrano, who has started the last six openers for the Cubs. Zambrano will start the second game of the season followed by Matt Garza in Game 3. The Cubs obtained Garza during the offseason from Tampa Bay. Quade said he called all three pitchers into his office, and that all were in accord with the decision. Earlier in spring training, Quade said he would wait as long as possible to pick his opening day starter.
Analysis: Dempster, who has been both a reliever and a starter for the Cubs since 2004, was 15-12 with a 3.85 ERA last season. But arguably he has pitched like the Cubs ace the last three seasons. He is 43-27 with a 3.49 ERA, 1.28 WHIP and has struck out 8.2 batters per nine innings in that span. Consider yourself fortunate to grab a pitcher like Dempter in the middle rounds of mixed Fantasy leagues.
News: The acquisition of Matt Garza means the Cubs head into 2011 with two 15-game winners from 2010. While Garza won 15 games for the Rays last season, SP Ryan Dempster won a team-high 15 games for Chicago in '10. Carlos Zambrano was second on the team with 11 wins and Carlos Silva was third with 10 victories.
Analysis: Dempster has been one of the Cubs' best pitchers since moving into the rotation in 2008. One dare say he has been the ace of the staff the last few seasons. Now with the arrival of Garza and with Zambrano returning to form late last season, Dempster will be challenged for the ace role in '11. Dempster has won at least 11 games the last three seasons and has made at least 31 starts as well. He broke 200 strikeouts for the second time in his career in '10, and even though he is 33, Dempster is showing no signs of slowing down. Consider Dempster a top 50 Fantasy SP on Draft Day and a nice middle-round selection in mixed leagues.
News: Cubs SP Ryan Dempster fell behind 2-0 in the second inning and that was all the Astros needed to get a win on the final day of the season. Dempster took the loss in the 4-0 defeat on Sunday. He struck out seven batters and walked just one, and he held Houston to three earned runs. However, the loss dropped his record to 15-12, which gave him his highest loss total since 2002. Dempster's final ERA for the season was 3.85.
Analysis: Dempster continued to be a reliable source for strikeouts and a lower-than-average ERA, but despite getting more run support this year than last, he racked up three more losses. He also happened to pick up four more wins, as he became a 15-game winner for the third time in his career. His wins and losses may fluctuate from year to year, but Dempster has been very reliable over the last three seasons. He will go into the 2011 season as a starting pitcher worthy of a draft pick in standard mixed leagues.
News: Cubs SP Ryan Dempster pitched well in Tuesday's 5-2 win over the Padres. Demspter allowed two runs on four hits over seven innings. The only runs he allowed came in the fifth inning on a two-run homer by Nick Hundley. The right-hander walked two and struck out nine while improving to 15-11 on the season.
Analysis: Dempster became just the third Canadian-born pitcher with at least three 15-win seasons. He now has over 200 strikeouts on the season and has pitched very well for a bad Cubs team. Continue to view him as a viable option in most mixed leagues. He is scheduled to a make his last start of the season on Sunday at Houston.
News: Cubs SP Ryan Dempster had his shortest outing of the year on Thursday night. The right-hander gave up nine runs off seven hits in just 1 2/3 innings of work against the Giants. He gave up just one in the first inning but got rocked in the second frame. He hit the leadoff batter before surrendering a two-run homer to Juan Uribe and gave up three more runs off four hits before being pulled for Thomas Diamond. Uribe hit a grand slam later in the frame, charging Dempster with his final runs. "He [Dempster] didn't look comfortable to me from the get-go," Cubs manager Mike Quade said. "He'll be fine next outing. Dempster struck out two and walked two in the 13-0 loss. "You certainly have to put this one behind you. This is a turn-the-page game for me," he said.
Analysis: Dempster had won his last two starts but could not escape the second inning on Thursday night. His poor performance raised his ERA from 3.50 to 3.87, which is 22 points higher than he posted last season. Dempster has had a few bad outings this season but has been pretty solid overall. Continue to view him as a viable option in most mixed leagues. His next start is scheduled for Wednesday at the Padres. Dempster is 7-4 with a 3.83 ERA in 20 appearances (11 starts) in his career against San Diego.
News: Cubs SP Ryan Dempster was dominant in Friday's 2-0 against the Marlins. Dempster allowed just four hits over seven innings. Dempster ran into some trouble in the seventh when he allowed the first Marlins to reach base. However, he retired the next three batters, including getting back-to-back strikeouts against Wes Helms and Emilio Bonifacio to end the inning. "The stronger you finish this year, the better, more positive things there are for next year," Dempster said. "That's why I think it is important to go through the finish line and not to it." Dempster walked three and struck out five to improve to 14-10 on the season.
Analysis: Dempster has now won two straight starts and five consecutive road starts. He has tossed seven shutout innings in each of his last two starts and allowed just three earned runs runs over his last 18 2/3 innings pitched. He has pitched well this season, but wins have been tough to come by this season playing for the Cubs. Still he can be continued to be used in most mixed leagues when he makes his next start which, is scheduled for Thursday against the Giants. Dempster is 4-7 with a 3.89 ERA in his career against San Francisco.
News: Cubs SP Ryan Dempster pitched seven shutout innings on Saturday night, allowing just three hits in a 1-0 win over the Brewers. The right-hander struck out eight and walked two while picking up his 13th win of the year. He retired 21 of the first 26 batters on his way to his 50th victory with Chicago. Dempster, who last his last two outings, threw 105 pitches while lowering his ERA to 3.62. "It's been a struggle my last couple times out," he said. "So to go out there and throw the ball well again felt good. Your team throws a shutout, great job by all the guys in the bullpen. It was a lot of fun."
Analysis: Dempster earned his 100th win on Saturday night and did so in dominant fashion. "Just to get to the big leagues is one thing, but to win 100 games is a special thing," the 33-year-old right-hander said. "It really is. It means a lot. Especially coming from Canada, there's not a lot of people that have done it. It really gives me a greater appreciation for those guys out there that have won 300 games." He is 5-2 with a 2.75 ERA since the beginning of August and has allowed more than three earned runs just once over that span. Playing on a bad team hasn't helped his cause but the 33-year-old is putting up better numbers than he did a year ago. He has 185 strikeouts in 194 2/3 innings pitched this season and remains a viable option in mixed leagues heading into Fantasy Week 24 (Sept. 13-19). His next start is scheduled for Friday at the Marlins. Dempster is 2-1 with a 2.00 ERA in 13 appearances (three starts) in his career against his former team.
News: Cubs Ryan Dempster struggles continued in Sunday's 18-5 loss to the Mets. Dempster allowed seven runs, three earned on nine hits over 4 2/3 innings. He only surrendred two runs over the first four innings, but things fell apart in the fifth. The Cubs were up 4-2 when Angel Pagan led off by reaching on a two-base error, when Tyler Colvin dropped his liner to deep right. The Mets sent 10 men to the plate after that and scored five times. Dempster was finally pulled after he allowed an RBI single to Jonathon Niese. "My velocity's good," Dempster said. "My confidence is good. I'm just not putting guys away when I get ahead of them - and that's a rare occasion right now." The right-hander walked four and struck out five while falling to 12-10 on the season.
Analysis: Dempster has been bad over his last two starts, allowing 10 earned runs in a span of just 7 2/3 innings. Prior to that he was pitching lights out, allowing just five earned runs in his previous five starts combined. Hopefully he can shake off these last two outings when he makes his next start which is scheduled Saturday at Milwaukee. Dempster has been very good against the Brewers this season, going 3-0 with a 2.84 ERA over four starts. Despite his recent struggles, he should remain active in all formats heading into Fantasy Week 23 (Sept.6-12) because of his favorable matchup.
News: The Cubs tweaked their rotation on Friday, bringing Ryan Dempster forward from Monday to Sunday. That gives him a second start in Fantasy Week 22 (Aug. 30-Sept. 5), but means he loses his two-start status for next week.
Analysis: Dempster was hit hard in his last outing on Tuesday, allowing seven runs on seven hits over three innings, so his Fantasy owners should be happy he'll get a chance to redeem himself in the current scoring period. The righty was pitching very well before the debacle earlier this week, so there's a good chance he comes out and performs better against the Mets on Sunday. Dempster remains worth using in most mixed Fantasy leagues.
News: Cubs SP Ryan Dempster was hit hard in Tuesday's 14-7 loss to the Pirates. Dempster allowed seven runs on seven hits and was pulled after three innings. The Pirates scored four times off Dempster in the first inning, one in the second and twice more in the third. "They have our number for sure," Dempster said. "The easiest thing for us is to put tonight behind us as fast we can and come out tomorrow and win a game and win a series. We can't worry about games we played the beginning of the year or a month ago, let alone a day ago." Dempster walked three and struck out six while falling to 12-9 on the season.
Analysis: Tuesday was by far Dempster's worst outing of the season. The right-hander had won his previous four decisions and had a 1.31 ERA through five starts in August prior to Tuesday's outing. Chalk it up as bad day for Dempster who will look to rebound when he makes his next start which is scheduled Monday against the Astros. Dempster is 1-0 with a 3.79 ERA this season against Houston.
News: Cubs SP Ryan Dempster struck out eight and allowed just two hits in his seven innings of work on Wednesday against Washington. The game was scoreless going into the eighth inning and Dempster wanted to stay in. Interim Cubs manager Mike Quade had other ideas. Tyler Colvin pinch-hit for Dempster and wound up scoring the go-ahead run, giving Chicago a 4-0 win over the Washington. "He wanted no part of coming out," Quade said. "He wasn't happy about that and that's OK, I don't want guys happy. But I think you've got to try and win the game."
Analysis: Dempster (12-8) has won four of his five starts this month for an ERA of 1.31 and 29 strikeouts. He has 168 strikeouts on the year, and is a solid Fantasy SP option in most mixed leagues. His Week 22 (Aug. 30-Sept. 5) start is slated for Tuesday against Pittsburgh. In 44 career games -- 19 starts -- versus the Pirates, Dempster is 6-9 with a 5.30 ERA.
News: Cubs SP Ryan Dempster allowed two runs on four hits in eight innings on Friday against the Braves. Dempster handed the game ball -- and a 3-2 lead -- off to Carlos Marmol in the ninth inning, but Atlanta scored three runs to take the game, 5-3. This was Dempster's first non-win in August as he is 3-0 with a 1.65 ERA in four starts this month. He struck out seven and walked two in his outing.
Analysis: Dempster has turned it up a notch in August as he's allowed just five earned runs over his 27 1/3 innings of work. With the Cubs not playing particularly well this year, Dempster's 11-8 record in 26 starts and 3.66 ERA isn't too bad. He has 160 strikeouts on the year, which is among the best in the majors. Despite the Cubs struggles, Dempster is still a solid play in mixed Fantasy leagues heading into Week 21 (Aug. 23-29). His next start is scheduled for Wednesday at Washington. in 21 games -- 13 starts -- versus the Nationals, Dempster is 7-1 with a 3.18 ERA.
News: Cubs SP Ryan Dempster picthed 6 2/3 innings on Sunday, allowing two runs off five hits in a 9-7 win over the Cardinals. The right-hander gave up a solo home run to Albert Pujols in the first and an RBI single to Skip Schumaker in the fifth for his only damage on the afternoon. Dempster, who won his third straight start for the first time since Aug. 10-23, 2008, struck out six and walked two while lowering his ERA to 3.62.
Analysis: Dempster has a 1.39 ERA over his last three starts while striking out 14 and walking just seven. He has been one of the lone bright spots for the Cubs this season with his 11 wins and sub-4.00 ERA. He could have more wins if he played on a better team but Dempster remains a solid option in mixed leagues heading into Fantasy Week 20 (Aug. 16-22). His next start is scheduled for Friday against the Braves. In one start against Atlanta this season, Dempster gave up just one run over six innings but walked away with a no-decision.
News: Cubs SP Ryan Dempster was able to outduel two-time Cy Young winner Tim Lincecum during an 8-6 win against the Giants on Tuesday. Dempster pitched into the seventh inning, as his counterpart only lasted four innings. Dempster (10-8) yielded eight hits and four runs (three earned) in 6 2/3 innings. He walked two and struck out three, as Dempster won his second straight start to begin August.
Analysis: Dempster has picked up seven wins in his last 13 starts after winning just three times in his first 11 starts. It's unusual too seeing how the Cubs haven't been very good this season. But Dempster continues to be a shining star in what has turned into a disappointing campaign for the Cubbies. Dempster remains a viable Fantasy start in all formats. He will take the hill again on Sunday at St. Louis. He is 0-1 with a 5.93 ERA in two starts against the Cardinals this season.
News: Cubs SP Ryan Dempster had not allowed an earned run through five innings and was still losing to the Brewers 3-1 on Wednesday afternoon. All three runs given up were unearned and the Cubs made up for three errors by finding their offense in the sixth inning. Chicago scored six times in the sixth inning, three times in the seventh and five more times in the eighth and beat the Brewers 15-3. Dempster earned the win, improving to 9-8 on the year, as he allowed three unearned runs on three hits and three walks over six innings. He struck out five and needed 95 pitches. Dempster's ERA is at 3.76 on the year.
Analysis: Dempster had been struggling in his previous three starts and was 0-1 over those games with 12 runs allowed over 16 innings. He's come through that and that could bode very well down the stretch run for Dempster, who figures to remain a solid mixed-league viable option across the board. His next scheduled start comes Tuesday in San Francisco. That puts him on track to make two appearances during the Week 19 (Aug. 9-15) scoring period. Dempster should be active in most mixed leagues in the upcoming scoring period but he has struggled at San Francisco's home ballpark, going 0-3 over 12 games and five starts with a 3.43 ERA.
News: With SP Carlos Zambrano returning to the rotation on Monday against the Giants, SP Ryan Dempster will be pushed back to Tuesday, where he is currently scheduled to face SP Tim Lincecum.
Analysis: Dempster has been struggling lately with no wins, 13 walks and a 6.75 ERA over his last three starts, but his two-start status in Fantasy Week 19 (Aug. 9-15) makes him a little more appealing next week, especially if he bounces back in his next outing, scheduled for Wednesday afternoon vs. Milwaukee. Dempster remains worth using in 12-team mixed formats as long as this funk doesn't continue for too much longer.
News: Cubs SP Ryan Dempster's sixth start of July was his worst one, during which he was handed his eighth loss of the season. He lasted just four innings against the Rockies, allowing five earned runs on seven hits, including a solo homer by Carlos Gonzalez. Dempster walked five while striking out five. It was his first loss since July 2.
Analysis: Dempster had received no-decisions in each of his previous two starts, and finished July 2-2 with a 5.03 ERA. But Friday's outing skews that ERA, and Dempster is striking out nearly a batter an inning on the season, so he's still a viable Fantasy option in mixed leagues. His next start is scheduled for Wednesday at home against Milwaukee. He's 2-0 with a 3.72 ERA against the Brewers this season.
News: The Cubs have shaken up their starting rotation for this weekend's series at Colorado, according to MLB.com. SP Ryan Dempster, who was originally scheduled to pitch Saturday, had his start moved up to Friday. SP Tom Gorzelanny had his next outing bumped from Friday to Saturday.
Analysis: Dempster is 1-0 with a 4.34 ERA in three starts since the All-Star break. While he isn't an elite Fantasy SP, he is a darn good one. His 134 strikeouts are among the best in the majors and he should be active in most mixed Fantasy formats. He is 5-3 with a 6.46 ERA in his career against the Rockies.
News: Cubs SP Ryan Dempster allowed three earned runs on nine hits through seven innings on Sunday against the Cardinals. He walked four and struck out four, but did not factor into the decision. The Cards went on to win the game, 4-3, in 11 innings. This was his seconds straight no-decision.
Analysis: Dempster is 1-0 in his three starts post All-Star break. He's allowed nine earned runs on 23 hits in his 18 2/3 innings of work. He should win more than his 11 games in 2009, but he'd have to get hot to reach his 17 of 2008. Dempster isn't an elite Fantasy SP, but he is a darn good one. His 134 strikeouts are among the best in the majors and should be active in most mixed Fantasy league formats. His Week 17 (July 26-Aug. 1) start is Saturday at Colorado. In 16 outings -- nine starts -- against the Rockies, Dempster is 5-3 a 6.46 ERA.
News: Cubs SP Ryan Dempster looked in line to earn his eighth loss of the season in Tuesday's 14-7 win over the Astros. Dempster allowed seven runs, four earned on eight hits in five innings. Most of the damage came in the second inning when he allowed four runs on two hits. He finished the fifth inning trailing 7-1 but then watched as the Cubs 13 runs over the last four innings to get him off the hook for the loss and earn the no-decision. He walked four and struck out only one.
Analysis: That was the most earned runs Dempster has allowed since May 20. Despite the poor outing on Tuesday, Dempster has still been the Cubs best pitcher this season. He is currently tied for fifth in the National League in strikeouts with 130 and should be active in most mixed leagues. He is scheduled to make his second start of Fantasy Week 16 (July 19-25) on Sunday against these same Astros. Dempster is 1-0 with a 2.57 ERA in two starts against Houston.
News: Cubs SP Ryan Dempster pitched 6 2/3 innings on Thursday night, allowing two runs off six hits in a 12-6 win over the Phillies. The right-hander gave up a two-run homer to Ryan Howard in the first inning before settling down over the next five. Then in the seventh, he allowed a two-out single to Shane Victorino before being pulled for Sean Marshall. Dempster struck out nine and walked three while picking up his second straight win. "I know everybody wants to count us down and out and the season to be over with," Dempster said, "but we refuse to do that and we're just going to go out there and play hard. It was a big game for us."
Analysis: Dempster is averaging nearly eight strikeouts over his last six starts with a 4-2 record. He has not allowed more than three earned runs in eight straight starts and has a 3.57 ERA on the year. He has emerged as one of the Cubs' best starters and should be active in mixed leagues for his eight wins and 129 strikeouts on the year. His next start is scheduled for Tuesday against the Astros. In two starts against Houston this season, Dempster is 1-0 with a 2.57 ERA.
News: Cubs SP Ryan Dempster, who has allowed three earned runs or fewer over his last seven starts, posting a 3.43 ERA during that stretch, will start the first game after the All-Star break Thursday against the Phillies.
Analysis: Dempster has a 3.61 ERA overall, so his recent performance is pretty much the way he has performed all season. With nearly a strikeout per inning and a respectable 1.20 WHIP, he clearly deserves to start more often than not in Fantasy. You'd just like to see his luck turn in the second half. He has only a 7-7 record.
News: Cubs SP Ryan Dempster clearly wasn't at his best in a five-inning effort at Arizona on Wednesday, but he managed to record the victory, upping his record to 7-7. He allowed three runs on eight hits with one walk and six strikeouts and has now allowed three earned runs or fewer in seven straight starts, posting a 3.43 ERA during that stretch.
Analysis: Dempster's streak really isn't all that impressive considering he has a 3.61 ERA on the season, but at least it shows he's consistent. He has been mostly effective this season, striking out almost a batter per inning, but the Cubs haven't done him any favors, handing him seven losses. Still, he's good enough that you'd rarely ever bench him in Fantasy, and he'll surely start one of the Cubs' four games against the Phillies after the All-Star break.
News: Cubs SP Ryan Dempster allowed only two hits, including a solo homer, while striking out seven through six dominant innings on Friday against the Reds. He then opened the seventh by walking Jonny Gomes and Jay Bruce. Ramon Hernandez grounded to Mike Fontenot but the second baseman dropped the ball for an error, and after Drew Stubbs struck out, Bronson Arroyo walked on four pitches to score a run. Brian Schlitter relieved Dempster and allowed six more runs to score before being relieved by Bob Howry. After all the smoke had cleared, the Reds put up nine runs in the inning. "That shows how fast an inning can get away," Dempster said. "I throw four pitches in a row to the pitcher that don't hit the strike zone ... and the doors fall off." Dempster finished the day with nine strikeouts and five walks while taking his seventh loss of the year.
Analysis: Dempster only gave up two earned runs on Friday, but let the game get out of hand late and ended up with the loss. He has alternated wins and losses in his last four starts but retains a solid 3.54 ERA. Thanks to a strikeout-to-walk ratio of 114-to-42, Dempster remains a viable option in mixed leagues. His next start is scheduled for Wednesday at the Diamondbacks. Dempster is 1-6 with a 6.11 ERA in 16 appearances (12 starts) in his career against Arizona.
News: Chicago SP Ryan Dempster (6-6) allowed nine hits and went seven innings on Sunday as the Cubs beat the White Sox, 8-6. He allowed a two-run single in a shaky first inning to Carlos Quentin and a leadoff homer to Paul Konerko in the sixth, but was solid otherwise. He walked one and struck out eight.
Analysis: Dempster has shown his durability for the Cubs this year as his shortest outing has been 5 1/3 innings on June 10. His strikeout-to-walk ratio of 105-to-37 is one of the best in the majors. He lowered his season ERA to 3.58 after Sunday and is scheduled to take on Cincinnati on Friday in Week 13 (June 28-July 4). In 36 games -- 12 starts -- against the Reds, Dempster has a 5-5 record with a 4.29 ERA. The wins will come for Dempster, but regardless if he gets them, he should be starting in all Fantasy formats.
News: Cubs SP Ryan Dempster pitched his first complete game of the season Tuesday at Seattle. Unfortunately, it came in a loss. He allowed two runs on five hits in eight innings, issuing two walks and recording eight strikeouts. He has pitched at least eight innings in eight of his last 13 starts, posting a 3.45 ERA during that stretch.
Analysis: Dempster is now 5-6 on the season even though he has a 3.56 ERA and a 1.16 WHIP. Clearly, he has suffered from his share of bad luck, but he's pitching about as well as he did in 2008, when he went 17-6. His high strikeout rate helps make up for his shortage of victories, so you should continue to start him in all Fantasy formats. His next start and second of Fantasy Week 12 (June 21-27) is scheduled for Sunday at the White Sox.
News: Cubs starter Ryan Dempster was a bit shaky early on Wednesday against the A's but settled down and eventually earned the win. Dempster (5-5) got some great defensive plays from third baseman Jeff Baker and allowed a baserunner in each of his first five innings. "He mixed it up pretty well and kept the ball down in the zone," Oakland manager Bob Geren said of Dempster. "But we had a chance to get him early." The A's didn't get to him, however, as he allowed two runs on eight hits over 6 2/3 innings and struck out seven. He walked two and his ERA is at 3.67 on the year.
Analysis: Dempster has allowed seven earned runs over his last three starts covering 18 1/3 innings with 17 strikeouts over that span and is 2-0 to show for it. He's pitching much better of late and the Cubs are playing improved baseball overall. Consider Dempster a solid start in any mixed Fantasy league for his two-start Week 12 (June 21-27). He will pitch in Seattle on Tuesday and end the week at the White Sox.
News: Cubs SP Ryan Dempster pitched 5 1/3 inning on Thursday, allowing three runs, two earned, off five hits against the Brewers. Dempster turned in his shortest outing of the season and walked five. He came into Thursday's game with 13 career wins over the Brewers, including four straight. "I just walked too many guys, especially with nobody out," Dempster said. "Every time I do that I put us in a position that we had to try make every play." He also struck out three and took the no-decision in the 5-4 loss.
Analysis: Dempster is 2-2 in his last five starts and has allowed 15 earned runs over that span. He has pitched pretty well this season with a 3.74 ERA and 82 strikeouts in 89 innings pitched. Fantasy owners should continue to roll with him in mixed leagues for his 32 wins over the past three seasons. His next start is scheduled for Wednesday against the A's. Dempster has never faced Oakland in his career but is 2-3 with a 3.71 ERA in six starts at home this season.
News: Cubs SP Ryan Dempster pitched 6 1/3 innings on Saturday, allowing three runs off six hits against the Astros. The right-hander allowed two runs though the first six innings and entered the seventh with a 6-2 lead. After retiring the first batter in the seventh, Dempster gave up a solo home run to Humberto Quintero and was pulled for Sean Marshall. But the bullpen would hold on, giving Dempster his fourth win of the year. He also struck out seven and walked two in the 8-5 win.
Analysis: Dempster has now won two of his last three starts and has a respectable 3.76 ERA on the year. He also has 79 strikeouts compared to just 27 walks an is a viable Fantasy option in most Fantasy formats. His next start is scheduled for Friday against the White Sox. In 12 appearances (five starts) against the White Sox in his career, Dempster is 1-4 with a 5.09 ERA.
News: Cubs SP Ryan Dempster allowed six runs on nine hits on Sunday against the Cardinals. He served up two home runs, both to Albert Pujols. "The first one he hits, it happens, but the second home run he fouled off a lot of really, really, really good pitches leading up to that, then I hung a slider right over the middle of the plate and he hit it off the firehouse across the street," said Dempster. He struck out seven and walked three while throwing 125 pitches in 6 2/3 innings. It was the most pitches Dempster has thrown since 2001. "Today I didn't execute pitches when I needed to. I gave up six runs with two outs," Dempster said. "That's a lack of execution." Dempster is now 3-5 with a 3.72 ERA on the year.
Analysis: Tough day for Dempster. The Cardinals knocked him around quite a bit on Sunday. He could not close an inning allowing all six runs to with two outs. The nine hits he allowed was a season high. Dempster had been pitching better of late, and still has a great strikeout-to-walk ratio (72-to-25). He has at least seven strikeouts in five of his last six starts and should continue to be used in most Fantasy leagues. His next start is scheduled for Saturday against the Astros. He is 4-10 with a 4.27 ERA in his career against Houston.
News: Cubs SP Ryan Dempster pitched eight innings of three hit ball on Tuesday against the Dodgers. The right-hander picked up his first win in May while striking out seven and only allowing one walk. He retired his final 13 batters. "As a team, you can accomplish a lot when guys start to do everything -- the little things, as well as the big things," Dempster said. Dempster improved to 3-4 with a 3.31 ERA on the season.
Analysis: Nice game from Dempster. He had been pitching better of late but did not have any wins to show for it. He has at least seven strikeouts in three of his last four starts and has gone at least seven innings in four of his last five. He should continue to be used in most mixed Fantasy leagues. He is scheduled to make his second start of Fantasy Week 8 (May 24-30) on Sunday against the Cardinals. He has a 4.35 career ERA against St. Louis.
News: The Cubs are expected to start Ryan Dempster on Tuesday, keeping him on regular rest. The status of lefty Tom Gorzelanny (finger) is up in the air, depending on how Carlos Zambrano feels in his sim game Monday. It is possible Zambrano replaces Gorzelanny in the rotation by the end of next week. "What I told Carlos is to be honest with me," Piniella told MLB.com. "[Tell me], 'Look, I'm ready,' or 'Look, I need one more [simulated game].' The thing about this is by pitching him Monday, we're pitching with one pitcher less and we don't want to get into that routine for a long period of time."
Analysis: Dempster was starting in 90 percent of Fantasy leagues as of Week 2. He has since dropped to 55 percent as he has gone 0-3 with a 5.00 ERA in four May starts. He has 26 strikeouts in 27 innings in that span, but Dempster has become quite hittable and has yielded five homers in May. The two-start week might get Dempster back in some mixed-league Fantasy lineups he was taken out of, but he is not past his struggles just yet. Dempster is scheduled to face the Dodgers and Cardinals in Week 8 (May 24-30). He is 6-3 with a 2.52 ERA in his career against Los Angeles and 6-6 with a 4.35 ERA against St. Louis.
News: Cubs starter Ryan Dempster allowed four earned runs over six innings in Thursday's start in Philadelphia. He gave up five hits and walked two batters. He struck out three in a no-decision. Dempster has not picked up a win since April 23, a span of five straight starts without a win.
Analysis: Dempster had lost his previous four, so Thursday was actually an improvement. He hasn't pitched poorly, however, and has just been the victim of bad run support. The Cubs have failed to score more than three runs in four of five of those starts. In fact, Dempster has pitched at least seven innings and has thrown a quality start in four of the outings, having allowed three or fewer runs. Eventually, things should even out and Dempster could bounce back in a big way. After all, he's really only looking at a few runs of support being the difference between being 4-2 with a 3.49 ERA and good strikeout numbers rather than 2-4. Dempster remains a good start in all formats for his upcoming start against the Dodgers. With Tom Gorzelanny being injured and questionable for his next start, there is a slight chance Dempster could be moved up a day and become a two-start pitcher in the upcoming scoring period to boot.
News: Cubs SP Ryan Dempster struck out nine in seven innings on Saturday but lost to the Pirates anyway. Dempster (2-4) allowed three earned runs on four hits over seven innings and seemingly was the better starter on the day. Still, it was Paul Maholm who walked away the victor. Dempster was wild, walking five, and he threw 123 pitches in the game. His ERA is now at 3.49 on the year, which is not bad considered he is two games under .500.
Analysis: Dempster began the year 2-0 after four starts and has since lost four in a row. He's been decent in all four losses but the Cubs haven't scored more than three runs in any of the losses and they have all been by two runs or fewer. Dempster is not pitching poorly and still commands Fantasy use in most mixed Fantasy leagues. His next start should come Thursday in Philadelphia. Dempster has not started at Citizens Bank Park since 2007 and does not have a record against the Phillies there over three games and three innings pitched.
News: Cubs SP Ryan Dempster struck out seven over seven innings on Sunday but lost to the Cincinnati Reds. Dempster's opponent, Mike Leake, took a no-hitter into the sixth inning and Dempster didn't have much of a chance as he fell to 2-3 on the season. Dempster allowed five earned runs on six hits over seven innings. He walked three and needed 113 pitches. His ERA is now at 3.44 on the season.
Analysis: Dempster is cold right now as he is the loser of three straight starts after beginning the season 2-0. He's allowed 11 earned runs over his last 22 innings with 20 strikeouts over that span, so it isn't like he's been terrible. The Cubs scored a total of seven runs in those starts, so it would have been hard to win even had be been flawless. He makes his next start on Saturday against Pittsburgh. Dempster is 6-8 with a 5.37 ERA over 21 career starts against the Pirates. That said, he did go 2-0 against them with a 4.66 ERA in three starts in 2009 but lost in his only start against them this season with three runs allowed over seven innings.
News: Cubs SP Ryan Dempster was done in by a pair of home runs during Tuesday's loss to the Pirates. He pitched seven innings, giving up three earned runs on eight hits, including bombs to Ryan Church and Andy LaRoche. He walked one while striking out seven. Dempster has lost his last two starts despite allowing six earned runs in 15 innings.
Analysis: Dempster pitched well enough to win each of his last two starts, but didn't get enough run support. He's really had only one poor outing this season, and his ERA stands at 2.95 with 39 strikeouts in 42 2/3 innings. He remains a quality Fantasy starting pitcher in all formats. His next start comes Sunday at Cincinnati. He's 5-4 with a 4.12 ERA in his career against the Reds.
News: Cubs starter Ryan Dempster (2-1) lost Wednesday for the first time in eight career decisions against the Nationals/Montreal Expos franchise. He allowed only four hits and one walk in eight innings but each hit factored in the scoring. Home runs by Adam Kennedy and Adam Dunn and second-inning singles by Roger Bernadina and Wil Nieves.
Analysis: Dempster took his first loss of the season in agame in which he allowed just three earned runs and pitched eight innings. Fantasy owners will take that kind of continued effort out of him as he continues to post solid ERA and WHIP totals. Continue to start him in just about any format for his upcoming two-start week against the Pirates and Reds.
News: Cubs SP Ryan Dempster allowed one earned run against the Brewers on Friday to earn his second win of the season. He pitched 7 2/3 innings, yielding seven hits and one walk while striking out four in an 8-1 pasting. "When Dempster is throwing strikes and getting ahead of hitters, he's got the pitches to get good hitting teams out, believe me," Cubs manager Lou Piniella said. Dempster has allowed only one earned run three times in four starts.
Analysis: Dempster is off to a fine start. He's posted a 2.60 ERA with 26 strikeouts in 27 2/3 innings. He remains a quality Fantasy starting pitcher in all formats. His next start comes Wednesday at home against Washington. He's 7-0 with a 3.16 ERA in his career against the Nationals.
News: Cubs SP Ryan Dempster breezed through the Houston order in his third start of the season on Sunday. He struck out the side in the fifth inning and finished with eight strikeouts, allowed one run, four hits and walked two in 7 2/3 innings. Dempster recorded 13 consecutive outs beginning with Pedro Feliz's fielder's choice that ended the third. The Astros did not get a hit until a leadoff infield single by Tommy Manzella in eighth.
Analysis: Another strong outing for Dempster on Sunday, but the 'pen could not hold the lead for him. He now has 22 strike outs through his first three starts and is sporting a 3.15 ERA for an underachieving Cubs team. Dempster's next start is scheduled for Friday against Milwaukee. In one start against the Brewers earlier this season, he allowed five runs over 6 1/3 innings while earning the win. Keep him active in all formats.
News:Ryan Dempster got the win in the Cubs' 9-5 victory over the Brewers on Monday. He pitched 6 1/3 innings, giving up five earned runs on seven hits and four walks. Four of Milwaukee's hits, including a Ryan Braun three-run homer, were for extra bases.
Analysis: Dempster was wilder than normal Monday, throwing 53 of his 114 pitches for balls. Dempster faces a less fearsome lineup Saturday versus Houston, and in any event, he is too good to allow this many baserunners very often. Keep him active in all formats.
News:Ryan Dempster pitched a strong, six innings allowing only three hits and one run but the Cubs fell to the Braves 3-2 on Wednesday. When Dempster left the game in the postion to get the win, but relief pitcher John Grabow allowed a two-run home run to Chipper Jones in the bottom of the eighth that sealed it for the Braves. Dempster also forced home a run when his chopper in the fifth could not be handled cleanly by Troy Glaus. His next start is scheduled for Monday against Milwaukee.
Analysis: Dempster looked fine in his first start. He only walked two while striking out nine batters. Dempster's 3-1 record and 3.67 ERA against the Brewers in 2009 also make him a solid start for Fantasy Week 2 (April 12-18)
News: Looking at his personal history against the Braves, Ryan Dempster seems unlikely to even the series against Atlanta on Wednesday, when he is scheduled to start. The right-hander has won only two of 13 career decisions against them.
Analysis: Dempster's history against the Braves doesn't bode well for the Cubs. But in his lone start against Atlanta in 2009, Dempster only allowed two earned runs in 6 2/3 innings. While his history against the Braves isn't appealing, he is good enough to start in most Fantasy formats.
News: Cubs SP Ryan Dempster's streak of 10 straight scoreless innings ended when Diamondbacks 3B Mark Reynolds hit his second two-run home run in two days in the fourth inning on Friday. Dempster, scheduled to pitch Wednesday at Atlanta, allowed those two runs on three hits. He struck out five and walked one in four innings. He had fanned five of the previous six batters when he walked Adam LaRoche with one out in the fourth. Reynolds, coming off a 44-home run season, followed and lined a 2-2 pitch into the seats in left field as Dempster slammed the rosin bag down in disgust.
Analysis: Dempster finished the spring with a 2.13 ERA in six starts. He didn't allow more than two runs in any of his outings and definitely looks ready for the season. Dempster has made more than 30 starts for two straight seasons and is certainly an unheralded Fantasy option since his name isn't usually synonymous with ace. But Dempster does pass as a viable Fantasy SP in most formats. He was 0-1 with a 2.70 ERA in one start against Atlanta last season.
News:Ryan Dempster put a little regular-season pressure on himself: bases loaded, no outs. Then came a dominant sequence the Cubs hope their No. 2 starter duplicates when the games get real beginning next week. Dempster struck out three consecutive Mariners with the bases full to end his seven shutout innings. He struck out nine in all and allowed just four hits in Chicago's 1-0 victory over Seattle on an unusual, shutdown Sunday in the homer-happy desert. "That was fun," Dempster said. For everyone with early dinner plans. The game lasted an hour and 59 minutes, more rare than rainouts in the Cactus League, thanks to Dempster and Seattle starter Ryan Rowland-Smith.
Analysis: Dempster sure looked ready for the season to get here. He continually fired low fastballs into the strike zone and worked with a quick, almost ruthless pace. His strikeouts were the most by a Cub this spring. He has 15 strikeouts in 12 1/3 innings of his last two spring starts. "I always said spring training was too long, anyway," he said, smiling. After five injury-plagued seasons, Dempster has averaged 32 starts, 14 wins and 180 strikeouts the past two seasons. He's still a potential 12-15 game winner with above-average strikeout potential, making him worth drafting as a No. 3 or 4 Fantasy SP.
News: Cubs SP Ryan Dempster was effective while throwing 93 pitches against the Royals on Tuesday. In 5 1/3 innings, he allowed two earned runs on four hits, walking three and whiffing six. "My stuff was real good," Dempster said. "I had all my pitches working, tried to go right after them." He was happy to have the opportunity to get that kind of work in during a spring training game. "It didn't feel like a lot (of pitches), but I think it's important to do that, build that arm. We're not that far away. There are only two more starts before the season starts. I enjoyed that. It's good to kind of pitch in every situation and work through some stuff." Dempster has posted an ERA of 2.51 with 11 strikeouts in 14 1/3 innings.
Analysis: After five injury-plagued seasons, Dempster has averaged 32 starts, 14 wins and 180 strikeouts the past two seasons. He's still a potential 12-15 game winner with above-average strikeout potential, making him worth drafting as a No. 3 or 4 Fantasy SP.
News: Cubs SP Ryan Dempster, who had pitched five scoreless innings coming into the game, allowed two runs on four hits in four innings Thursday at the Dodgers, striking out three and walking one. He now has a 2.00 ERA.
Analysis: Dempster wasn't quite as impressive last year as he was during his 17-win 2008, but he still had a high strikeout rate and finished the year strong with a 2.82 ERA over his final 13 starts. At age 32, he doesn't have as much upside as some middle-rounders, but he's still worth drafting as a No. 3 Fantasy SP.
News:Ryan Dempster and the Chicago Cubs handled a stiff breeze to slip past their rivals from the Windy City. Dempster, who is expected to grab a spot as one of the Cubs' top three starting pitchers, allowed one hit in three innings. He struck out two, walked none and allowed no earned runs and the Cubs earned an 8-7 win over the White Sox on Saturday. Cubs bench coach Alan Trammell, who managed the split squad Cubs to a two-game sweep of the White Sox in place of Cubs manager Lou Piniella, who didn't accompany the team here, was impressed with Dempster's performance in the wind. "Demp was sharp," Trammell said. "That was what we were looking for. Most importantly, guys got their work in. For Ryan, that was important. It wasn't the best of conditions out there."
Analysis: The tough conditions gave Dempster a chance to show why he has been able to pitch at least 200 innings in five seasons, including the past two after he underwent Tommy John surgery in 2003. Dempster said that the plan was to pitch three innings, but he believed he could have gone four or five innings if needed in a wind that kept a TV camera from operating in center field and created a few dust storms. "I felt good," Dempster said. "I kept the ball down. I didn't try to just command the fastball. I didn't get behind a whole lot. I made adjustments. In spring games you're pitching more innings and you have to continue to try and refine that." Dempster has yet to allow an earned run in five spring outings and has given up just one hit. Dempster is looking to up his win total again in 2010 after it dropped from 17 to 11 in 2009. He has been very good over the last few seasons for Chicago and has emerged as a top 30 Fantasy SP.
News: Cubs SP Ryan Dempster pitched two perfect innings at the Athletics in his spring debut Monday, though he didn't record a strikeout. "I'm just trying to thrown downhill and not let a ball hit off my head," he said. "I threw some good pitches toward the end and I can keep building up to the season. It was a good first day."
Analysis: Dempster threw only six pitches, which is a good sign for him since he can sometimes struggle with walks. His 2009 season seemed like a disappointment after he won 17 games in 2008, but a strong finish still made his numbers respectable. He's still a potential 12-15 game winner with above-average strikeout potential, making him worth drafting as a No. 3 or 4 Fantasy SP. His 32 years of age is his biggest concern.
News: MLB.com reports that Cubs SP Ryan Dempster is likely a lock to begin the season in the Cubs starting rotation. The report says that three spots are secured in the rotation: Carlos Zambrano, Randy Wells and Dempster.
Analysis: Dempster recorded 200 innings for the second straight season but wasn't nearly as sharp in 2009 as a 32-year-old as he was in 2008. Dempster went 11-9 last season with a 3.64 ERA and a 1.305 WHIP one season after winning a career-high 17 games with a 2.96 ERA and 1.210 WHIP. Pitching for the Cubs, we think Dempster could fall somewhere between those two season's numbers. We call him a No. 3 Fantasy starter and rank him inside the top 30 Fantasy starters on Draft Day.
News: Cubs SP Ryan Dempster threw a complete game shutout against the Pirates on Tuesday night to improve to 11-8 on the season. He gave up just five hits and walked two with six K's. His ERA is 3.51.
Analysis: Dempster is pitching the lights out and has won three straight decisions and five of his last six. The game he lost, he didn't allow a single earned run. He is a high-end Fantasy starter for all mixed leagues and that is true for 2010 as well. Dempster gets one more start in the regular season on Sunday against Arizona.
News: Cubs SP Ryan Dempster limited the Cardinals to one run on eight hits over eight innings Saturday, but took the no-decision. Dempster struck out six and walked one.
Analysis: Dempster had been alternating good and bad outings coming into Saturday, but now he has two great starts in a row. Even with the no-decision, Dempster has won four of his last six starts and looks like a reliable mixed league option the rest of the way. In Fantasy Week 25 (Sept. 21-27), he will get one start at San Francisco, where he'll face Brad Penny.
News:Ryan Dempster pitched eight shutout innings and Derrek Lee homered for the seventh time in 10 games Monday night, carrying the Cubs to a 2-0 victory over the Brewers. Dempster (10-8) allowed four hits, walked one and struck out four to join John Smoltz as the only pitchers to follow three 20-save seasons with two 10-win seasons as a starter.
Analysis: Dempster is 11-3 all-time against the Brewers. He held them hitless until two outs in the fifth, when Jason Kendall singled, stole second and went to third on catcher Geovany Soto's throwing error. Frank Catalanotto then hit a sinking liner to center, with a diving Fuld making a backhanded catch. Dempster has been pretty good of late and should remain active in all formats. His second start in the current scoring period is scheduled for Saturday at St. Louis.
News: Cubs SP Ryan Dempster didn't have his best stuff on Tuesday but still managed to beat the Pirates rather handily. Dempster allowed four runs on eight hits over 6 1/3 innings and improved to 9-8 on the season. He walked two and had four strikeouts. Dempster threw 98 pitches and has a 4.03 ERA on the year.
Analysis: Dempster has won three of his last four starts for the Cubs but he's alternating dominant and mediocre performances. The strikeout totals remain high, however, so continue using him in most mixed Fantasy leagues. Dempster is a two-start pitcher during Week 24 (Sept. 14-20) with his first start coming Monday against Milwaukee.
News: Cubs SP Ryan Dempster couldn't outduel rookie SP Carlos Torres during a 5-0 loss to the White Sox Thursday. Dempster pitched into the eighth before being chased after two runs scored to make it 3-0. He allowed three unearned runs in seven-plus innings while yielding nine hits and one walk. Dempster struck out seven and saw a personal two-game winning streak end.
Analysis: Dempster has been far from the pitcher that won 17 games in 2009, but he has been pitching better as of late. He has allowed no earned runs in two of his last three starts and was merely betrayed by poor defense and offensive support Thursday. Dempster is still worth using in most Fantasy formats but maybe we should curb our expectations. His next scheduled start is for Tuesday against the Pirates. Dempster has no record and a 13.50 ERA in his lone start against Pittsburgh this season.
News: Cubs SP Ryan Dempster (8-7) allowed four runs on eight hits over six innings Saturday as Chicago defeated the Mets 11-4. Dempster struck out seven and walked two.
Analysis: Dempster has been racking up the strikeouts lately, averaging over seven in his last four starts, which is at least something to get excited about. Dempster is a decent starting option in all Fantasy formats and can eat up innings when pitching well. In Fantasy Week 22 (Aug. 31-Sept. 6), Dempster will face the Mets again, so is certainly worth using in the majority of leagues.
News: Cubs SP Ryan Dempster (7-7) allowed one unearned run and three hits in seven-plus innings, struck out five and walked one to end a two-game slide on Sunday in a 3-1 win over the Dodgers. His ERA dropped to 4.07 with the performance.
Analysis: The right-hander credited his breakfast of "pancakes and a little bowl of whip-your-butt cereal" for his solid outing. "When you get ahead of hitters, especially a lineup like that, they don't ever give you a break and you just got to try and pound the strike zone as much as possible. I was able to mix speeds, kind of go back and forth between hard and soft," he said. "I just threw the ball to the plate and those guys made the plays behind me." Dempster remains a must-start in all formats. His next start is scheduled for Saturday against the Mets.
News: Cubs SP Ryan Dempster worked seven innings for the second straight start Tuesday at San Diego. He also lost for the second straight start, allowing four runs on eight hits with three walks and a season-high 10 strikeouts.
Analysis: Dempster has a 4.94 ERA in five starts since returning from a broken toe, so he's not looking much like the ace he was last year. The strikeouts are a step in the right direction, though. He's still worth starting in most Fantasy leagues as an innings eater on a contender, but he's no longer a must-start. His next start is scheduled for Sunday at the Dodgers, making him a two-start pitcher in Fantasy Week 20 (Aug. 17-23).
News:Ryan Dempster, in his fourth start since coming off the disabled list with a broken toe -- an injury he got hopping over the dugout railing -- allowed six runs in seven innings of work. He took the loss to fall to 6-6 on the season, striking out eight and walking two batters.
Analysis: Dempster had not lost since June 22 prior to Thursday and has been able to reach six innings in five of his last seven starts. He has solid strikeout ability and is still pitching for a contender in Chicago. Continue to view him as a solid play for his upcoming two-week scoring period when he'll face the Padres and Dodgers on the road.
News: Cubs SP Ryan Dempster (6-5) ended a four-game road skid Saturday night as Chicago edged Colorado 6-5, giving Dempster his first win away from Wrigley Field since April 12. He went six innings and give up nine hits. Of the five runs he surrendered, only two were earned.
Analysis: Dempster has been giving up a bunch of hits recently, but he seems to find a way to get out of games without taking a loss on most occasions. Still, he's having a pretty disappointing 2009 campaign. In Fantasy Week 19 (Aug. 10-16), he will get one start against the Phillies. Use Dempster in deeper mixed leagues as a low-end starting option.
News: Cubs SP Ryan Dempster, in his second start back from the disabled list, pitched six shutout innings Sunday against the Marlins, yielding just three hits. Dempster left with a 1-0 lead, which Aaron Heilman promptly wasted. Two batters into his outing, Heilman served up Cody Ross' first homer of the day, a drive to straightaway center field. Dempster walked four and struck out four.
Analysis: Dempster did much better Sunday against the Marlins after yielding five runs and nine hits to the Astros Tuesday. It's easy to say Dempster has been one of the more disappointing Fantasy options in 2009 after netting a career-high 17 wins in 2008. Dempster still has a lot of Fantasy potential pitching for a team like the Cubs, but no one would blame you for taking him down a notch until he finds his rhythm.
News: Cubs SP Ryan Dempster, who was activated from the disabled list before the game, was noticeably rusty on Tuesday against the Astros. He avoided the loss and took a no decision but gave up six runs -- five earned -- on nine hits over five innings. He did not walk a batter and finished with three strikeouts. His ERA is at 4.31.
Analysis: Dempster was pitching for the first time since July 2 in a win over Milwaukee. He was clearly rusty on Tuesday but should still be considered a must-own Fantasy starter in all mixed leagues because of his upside. He gets another turn on Sunday at Florida.
News: The Chicago Cubs have activated Ryan Dempster from the 15-day disabled list and optioned reliever Justin Berg to Triple-A Iowa. Dempster was scheduled to make Tuesday night's start against the Houston Astros. He has been out since July 5, when he broke his right big toe hopping over the dugout railing to go on the field and celebrate a victory over the Milwaukee Brewers. He caught his back leg on the railing and landed hard, injuring his toe.
Analysis: Dempster is 5-5 with a 4.09 ERA this season after going 17-6 with a 2.96 ERA in 2008. He made his last start on July 2. He'll be on a pitch count and that is going to hurt his immediate Fantasy value as he'll be restricted. You might wanna keep him inactive in daily leagues until he proves healthy and effective. He could get two starts this week, also, so stay tuned to see how Tuesday's start goes.
News: Cubs RHP Ryan Dempster is scheduled to start Tuesday against the Astros. He has been on the DL with a broken right toe since July 7. Lou Piniella expects to keep his pitch count around 80-85 pitches.
Analysis: Dempster is 5-5 on the season with a 4.09 ERA and has not pitched since beating Milwaukee back on July 2. He'll be on a pitch count and that is going to hurt his immediate Fantasy value as he'll be restricted. You might wanna keep him inactive in daily leagues until he proves healthy and effective. He could get two starts this week, also, so stay tuned to see how Tuesday's start goes.
News: Cubs SP Ryan Dempster is expected to be activated in time to start Tuesday's home game against the Astros.
Analysis: Dempster was a viable mixed league option before he came down with this injury and should be able to return to that role when he get back healthy. The Astros will be without Lance Berkman for a while, so Dempster might be a nice sleeper option for Fantasy Week 17 (July 27-Aug. 2).
News: With SP Ted Lilly (shoulder) scratched from his scheduled start on Saturday, the Chicago Daily Herald reports that SP Ryan Dempster (toe) is now likely to come off the DL and make a start Wednesday vs. Houston.
Analysis: Dempster was a viable mixed league option before he came down with this injury and should be able to return to that role when he get back healthy. The Astros will be without Lance Berkman for a while, so Dempster might be a nice sleeper option for Fantasy Week 17 (July 27-Aug. 2).
News: Cubs RHP Ryan Dempster, on the DL since July 7 with a broken toe, could rejoin the starting rotation as early as next Thursday, according to manager Lou Piniella.
Analysis: If Dempster does, indeed, start next Thursday, it would come against Houston and be in place of Kevin Hart. Continue to monitor this situation because Dempster is a worthy mixed-league Fantasy starter when healthy.
News: Cubs RHP Ryan Dempster reported no discomfort after he threw 60 pitches in the bullpen before the game Monday. Dempster has been on the DL since July 7 with a broken toe. Manager Lou Piniella says Dempster will pitch in a simulated game before working his way back into the rotation.
Analysis: It sounds like Dempster won't be back into the rotation until at least early August at this point. He is a high-end Fantasy SP when healthy.
News: Cubs SP Ryan Dempster, on the 15-day disabled list since July 7 (fractured toe), threw a bullpen session Saturday and "felt OK," manager Lou Piniella said on Saturday.
Analysis: It is not at all surprising to see Dempster go on the DL as he has a long history of injuries. Dempster won't be back in time for Fantasy Week 16 (July 20-26) so just keep stashing him in all formats until he returns. He is a high-end Fantasy SP when healthy.
News:Ryan Dempster, a 17-game winner last season for the Cubs, was placed on the 15-day disabled list Tuesday due to a broken right toe. Dempster was scratched from his start Tuesday night against the Atlanta Braves and replaced by Carlos Zambrano. The Cubs recalled right-hander Kevin Hart from Triple-A Iowa, one day after he hed been optioned back to the minors. Dempster made the switch back to starter last season after being the Cubs closer for three years. He went 17-6 with a 2.96 ERA in 33 starts and was picked for the All-Star team in 2008.
Analysis: Dempster is 5-5 with a 4.09 ERA in 17 starts for the Cubs this season. There was no immediate word on how he was injured. Dempster pitched last Thursday against the Milwaukee Brewers. Consider him out through late July at this point, perhaps well into August. A broken bone tends to take a month to heal and injured pitchers tend to need strengthening time for their inactive shoulder once they are healthy.
News: Cubs SP Ryan Dempster didn't have his best outing on Thursday against the Brewers but got plenty of run support from Derrek Lee's two homers that accounted for seven runs. Dempster tossed 6 2/3 innings, allowing four runs, three earned. He struck out nine in the game and walked two.
Analysis: Dempster has a 5-5 record and 4.09 ERA through 17 starts this season. He has a somewhat high WHIP at 1.37 but plays for a good enough team to be considered a viable Fantasy SP in deeper mixed leagues. His next start is scheduled for Tuesday against Atlanta's Javier Vazquez.
News: Cubs SP Ryan Dempster gave up five earned runs on Saturday against the White Sox and was without his best stuff. The Cubs and Sox were tied when he was removed from the game after five innings as he settled for a no decision. Dempster gave up eight hits and walked three. He had two K’s. His ERA is at 4.09 for the season.
Analysis: Dempster has a record below .500 on the season at 4-5 and a high ERA. The five earned runs were the most he’s allowed in a start since May 25 but he’s yet to win a game in June. He’s stayed fairly solid and worth using in deeper mixed Fantasy leagues but owners would like to see him get hot. His next start comes Thursday against Seth McClung and the Brewers.
News: Cubs SP Ryan Dempster lost for the second straight start Monday at Atlanta even though he allowed only two runs in 6 2/3 innings. He pitched out of more than a few jams, though, considering he allowed eight hits and four walks. He also recorded six strikeouts.
Analysis: Dempster has five straight quality starts, but he has walked a total of 10 batters over his last two starts. He'll have to improve his control before he can get back to pitching like he did last year, when he won 17 games. Still, he's a worthwhile Fantasy SP -- at least a No. 3 or 4 option -- as it is. His next start and second of Fantasy Week 12 (June 22-28) is scheduled for Saturday at the White Sox.
News: Cubs SP Ryan Dempster (4-4) walked six batters and allowed three runs on four hits over six innings in a 4-1 loss to the White Sox on Wednesday. Dempster struck out four.
Analysis: Dempster racked up another quality start Wednesday, but was outpitched by John Danks, who allowed just one run over seven innings of work. Dempster has been a solid starting pitcher in mixed leagues this season, but has been hurt by a lack of offensive support on a number of occasions. Even though he's not getting you wins, stick with Dempster in the majority of formats for the time being.
News: Cubs SP Ryan Dempster had a solid outing on Thursday against the Astros but took a no decision. He tossed seven innings, allowing one earned run on seven hits. He did not issue a free pass and struck out four as his ERA on the season fell to 3.87.
Analysis: Dempster has allowed a total of one earned run in his last three starts but has only won one of the games, taking two no decisions. All but one of his outings this season have been quality starts as he remains a solid play in mixed leagues, especially deeper ones. His next start is scheduled for Wednesday against the White Sox's Gavin Floyd.
News:Ryan Dempster didn't allow an earned run Saturday in Cincinnati, giving up six hits with seven strikeouts and two walks. He did allow three unearned runs.
Analysis: Dempster was actually on the hook for a loss in the game until his offense rallied to tie it and send it into extra innings. He pitched well enough to win, however, and has not allowed an earned run in back-to-back outings. He seems to be back on track and is a solid play in NL-only leagues and most mixed leagues for his next start June 11 in Houston.
News: The game between the Braves and the Cubs in Atlanta on Thursday was rained out and rescheduled for June 22. The rainout forces the Cubs to push several of their pitchers back a day. Ryan Dempster, who left his last start with a blister, gets even more time to recover. He'll now start Saturday at Cincinnati.
Analysis: Dempster had arguably his best start of the season before leaving with the blister, pitching seven scoreless innings against the Dodgers. He has struggled a bit after his 17-win campaign a year ago, but he's still piling up innings and striking out batters at a good rate. Keep him active in all Fantasy leagues.
News: Cubs SP Ryan Dempster, who left his last start Saturday because of a blister, threw on the side Tuesday and should be ready to go Friday at Cincinnati.
Analysis: The Cubs pushed Dempster back to give his blister extra time to heal. The blister has bothered him for much of the season, but he has pitched better lately and is worth using as a No. 3 Fantasy SP.
News: Cubs manager Lou Piniella said Ryan Dempster (blister) will get some extra time between starts. He is scheduled to pitch Saturday at Cincinnati.
Analysis: Dempster will still get a start in Fantasy Week 9 (June 1-7), albeit at Cincy. Consider him a viable option in most leagues, especially since he was outstanding his last time out.
News: According to MLB.com, Cubs SP Ryan Dempster is not expected to miss a start because of the blister on his right middle finger, but he will get at least one extra day off because of Monday's off day. If the Cubs rotation were to remain in alignment, Dempster's next start would be on Thursday. However, with Carlos Zambrano's suspension ending on Thursday, Dempster's next start won't be until either be on Friday or Saturday at Cincinnati. "If he needs an extra day, we'll give it to him," Cubs manager Lou Piniella said of Dempster.
Analysis: Dempster went seven shutout innings on Saturday despite having the blister, something that has bothered him the entire season. He should make a start in Fantasy Week 9 (June 1-7) so don't hesitate to get him active in mixed leagues. He is 4-3 this season with a 4.48 ERA.
News: Cubs SP Ryan Dempster bounced back from his worst start of the year, pitching seven sharp innings for Chicago with a blister on his right middle finger in a 7-0 victory over the Dodgers on Saturday. Piniella said he took Dempster out as a precaution because of the blister, which has been bothering him throughout the season. Piniella said he can push back Dempster in the rotation if the blister becomes a bigger problem. The Cubs have right-hander Rich Harden and slugger Aramis Ramirez on the disabled list, while ace Carlos Zambrano is serving a six-game suspension. "I've been battling it most of the year, but I've tried to keep it quiet," Dempster said. "Today we did a good job between starts of getting it where it needs to be and got me out before it flared up. Hopefully we can get past this and not be much of an issue for the rest of the season." Dempster (4-3) allowed just three hits with one walk, striking out five.
Analysis: Dempster has gone seven innings in three of his last four starts, posting a 2-1 record over that four-game span. He received a no decision in his previous start, but only made it through four innings. This blister issue is obviously a concern looking ahead to Fantasy week 9 (June 1-7) as he could miss his next start with the blister or have the start pushed back. When healthy, Dempster is a No. 3 Fantasy SP worth using in most mixed leagues. His next start is scheduled for Friday at Cincinnati against Micah Owings, but that's clearly not set in stone.
News: Cubs SP Ryan Dempster, coming off two great starts in which he allowed a combined four earned runs in 14 innings, took a step in the wrong direction Monday against the Pirates. He allowed six runs on seven hits in four innings, issuing three walks and recording three strikeouts. He didn't factor in the decision.
Analysis: Just when Dempster was starting to look like his 17-win self again, he had arguably his worst start of the season. Chances are Dempster won't be quite as good as he was last year -- it was a surprise, after all -- but he isn't this bad either. Think of him as a No. 3 Fantasy SP, especially since he pitches for the contending Cubs. His next start and second of Fantasy Week 8 (May 25-31) is scheduled for Saturday against the Dodgers.
News: Cubs SP Ryan Dempster pitched well on Wednesday in a pitchers duel with Chris Carpenter of the Cardinals. Carpenter got the win, however, and Dempster the loss. He fell to 3-3 on the year as he allowed just two earned runs on six hits over seven innings. He walked two and struck out three. Dempster has a 4.40 ERA on the year.
Analysis: Dempster has pitched well in three of his last four starts, despite two losses over that frame. He's always a decent option for deeper mixed Fantasy leagues and that goes double in Week 8 (May 25-31) as he pitches twice. He'll face Pittsburgh on Monday and finish the week against the Dodgers.
News:Ryan Dempster excelled with both his arm and bat as the Cubs took advantage of 10 walks Thursday for an 11-3 victory over the skidding Padres. Dempster (3-2) allowed two runs and three hits over seven innings. He also drove in two runs with a double and a single as the Cubs completed a three-game sweep, their first home sweep of the Padres since 1999.
Analysis: Dempster has not been overly impressive this season but had one of his better performances on Thursday against the Padres. He remains a decent Fantasy SP who will hopefully have more outings like the one he had on Thursday in the future. His next start is slated for Wednesday at St. Louis against Mitchell Boggs.
News: The Chicago Tribune reports that Cubs SP Ryan Dempster will not face any discipline for throwing a pitch Saturday that glanced off Brewers OF Ryan Braun's helmet.
Analysis: Dempster will pitch in Thursday's series finale against the Padres, and belongs active in NL-only and deeper mixed leagues at this time with his 41 Ks in 43 innings.
News: Cubs SP Ryan Dempster will pitch in Thursday's series finale against the Padres, instead of going on Friday against Houston. Dempster is moved up because Randy Wells will start Friday's game.
Analysis: Dempster has had his moments this season but has ultimately been mediocre at best for the Cubs. He's striking people out at a nice rate, but isn't winning consistently and really hasn't been going deep in games, either. He belongs active in NL-only and deeper mixed leagues at this time.
News: Brewers manager Ken Macha suggested a pitch by Cubs starter Ryan Dempster that glanced off the helmet of Brewers slugger Ryan Braun on Saturday deserves to be reviewed by Major League Baseball. Dempster hit Braun with the pitch in the fifth inning of the Brewers' 12-6 victory over the Cubs. "I think the league frowns at people throwing at other people's heads," Macha said after the Brewers lost 4-2 to the Cubs on Sunday. "I don't know if (baseball's vice president for discipline) Bob Watson has looked at it." Braun came back to hit a home run off Dempster later in the game, and stared the pitcher down as he began to circle the bases. Braun did not address the issue after the game. "If they threw at my head, I wouldn't be happy about it," Macha said.
Analysis: This news is only relevant in Fantasy if the league decides to suspend Dempster for a start. Assume that they won't until at least after his next start which is on Friday against Brian Moehler. Keep him active for Fantasy Week 6 (May 11-17) as a solid Fantasy SP.
News: Cubs SP Ryan Dempster fell to 2-2 on the season on Saturday in a loss to the Brewers. Dempster was beaten by Yovani Gallardo but he did not fare well against the Milwaukee offense. Dempster allowed five runs -- four earned -- on seven hits over 6 1/3 innings. He walked three but did have nine strikeouts. Dempster was hurt by the long ball as he allowed two homers on the game. His ERA is 4.98 for the year.
Analysis: Dempster has had his moments this season but has ultimately been mediocre at best for the Cubs. He's striking people out at a nice rate, but isn't winning consistently and really hasn't been going deep in games, either. With his next start coming against Brian Moehler and Houston, however, you could give him looks in NL-only and deeper mixed leagues. Moehler and the Astros have not been great this season.
News: Cubs SP Ryan Dempster, who had struggled with poor control and high pitch counts early this season, looked more like the guy who won 17 games last season against the Giants on Monday. He allowed two runs on five hits in seven innings, issuing two walks and recording seven strikeouts. He improved his record to 2-1 and lowered his ERA to 4.86.
Analysis: Despite his struggles this season, Dempster has yet to get shelled in any one start, allowing no more than five earned runs and pitching no fewer than six innings. In fact, he had pitched six innings in every start before going seven Monday. His ability to limit damage still gives him plenty of value in Fantasy even if he doesn't quite live up to last year's standard. He's a solid No. 3 Fantasy SP and will make his next start Saturday at Milwaukee.
News: The Diamondbacks jumped on Cubs SP Ryan Dempster for three runs in the first inning Wednesday and didn't look back in a 10-0 rout of Chicago. Felipe Lopez drew a leadoff walk and Augie Ojeda singled to put runners at first and third. Both scored on Chad Tracy's ground rule double that bounced over the fence in right. Tracy advanced to third on Mark Reynolds' single, then scored when Eric Byrnes bounced into a fielder's choice. Arizona made it 4-0 when Tracy lined the first pitch of the third inning into the right-field seats for his second home run of the year. Dempster (1-1) threw six innings plus one batter, allowing five runs and six hits. He struck out four and walked three.
Analysis: It has not been a good start to the 2009 season for Dempster. He has managed to go six innings in each of his five starts, but he has just one win, been tagged for six or more hits in four of those outings and has a 5.40 ERA. He has fallen a long ways from being a 17-game winner and posting a 2.96 ERA last season. You figured Dempster had more to lose than gain in 2009. He still passes as a viable Fantasy SP in most formats, but just keep expectations in check. His next scheduled start is for Monday against the Giants. He is on track to be a two-start pitcher Week 5 (May 4-10) with his second outing coming against the Brewers. Dempster was 0-1 with a 4.26 ERA in two starts against the Giants last season and is 1-0 with a 6.00 ERA in his lone start against Milwaukee this season (April 12).
News: Cubs SP Ryan Dempster allowed three runs and seven hits in six innings Friday against the Cardinals. He had trouble outdueling Adam Wainwright and was on the hook for the loss until Chicago tied the game in the seventh. Dempster walked one and struck out six in his third no decision in four starts.
Analysis: Dempster has gone six innings in each of his four starts this season, but has allowed three or more runs in his last three outings. He has also walked 11 batters in 24 innings this season. He hasn't quite been as dominant as he was in 2008 when he won a career-high 17 games. You figured Dempster had more to lose than gain in 2009. He still passes as a viable Fantasy SP in most formats, but just keep expectations in check. His next scheduled start is for Wednesday at Arizona. Dempster had no record and a 3.00 ERA in one start against the Diamondbacks last season.
News: Cubs hurler Ryan Dempster allowed four runs on four hits over six innings on Saturday and earned a no decision against the Cardinals. Dempster was losing 4-1 after four innings but the Cubs tied the score for him in the fifth and he actually left with the lead before the Cardinals tied the score in the eighth. Dempster walked four and had four strikeouts. His season ERA is 5.00.
Analysis: Dempster is still 1-0 on the season after the no decision on Saturday. Thus far, however, he hasn't pitched past the sixth inning and he's allowing far too many walks and runs without a massive number of K's, for him. While pitching for the Cubs, he'll always be an admirable option for deeper Fantasy leagues, but he needs to start pitching better because he's not living up to potential right now. Dempster next pitches on Friday at St. Louis against Todd Wellemeyer. At this point, we'd only start him for Week 3 (April 20-26) in NL-only leagues.
News: Despite not being at his best Sunday at Milwaukee, Cubs SP Ryan Dempster recorded his first victory of the season. He allowed four runs on six hits in six innings, walking three and striking out six.
Analysis: Dempster actually pitched better in his first start against the Astros but got a no-decision then. He has six walks in 12 innings, so his control has been a little off, but otherwise, he seems the same as when he won 17 games with a 2.96 ERA last season. Keep him active as a No. 2 or 3 Fantasy SP for his next start Saturday against the Cardinals.
News: Cubs SP Ryan Dempster allowed two runs and six hits in six innings during a no decision Tuesday against the Astros. Dempster held a 1-0 lead before Houston scored in the fifth and sixth innings to take the lead. Dempster was off the hook for the loss as Chicago tied the game in the eighth. He struck out five, walked three and allowed a solo homer to Hunter Pence.
Analysis: Dempster was pretty effective in his first 2009 start, but just couldn't get enough run support. After toiling with mediocrity as a starter and reliever for most of his career, Dempster had his breakout season in 2008 in his 11th MLB season. He went 17-6 with a 2.96 ERA in 33 starts. The Cubs will contend in the NL and that will give Dempster plenty of chances for double-digit wins again. He is worth a look as a No. 2 Fantasy SP. His next scheduled start is for Sunday against the Brewers. Dempster was 4-0 with a 2.40 ERA in five starts against Milwaukee last season.
News: Cubs SP Ryan Dempster was more than happy with his outing in Thursday's start against the Indians. Dempster, the Cubs' No. 2 starter behind Carlos Zambrano, pitched four innings. He gave up five hits and three runs while walking none and striking out seven. He allowed home runs to Shin-Soo Choo in the first inning and pinch-hitter Andy Marte in the second. "I gave up a couple home runs, but that's as good as I've thrown the ball all spring," Dempster said. "It's a nice way to end up and go into the regular season." Dempster finished the spring with a 3.29 ERA.
Analysis: After spending the last few years as a struggling closer who rarely had a firm grip on the job, Dempster emerged as a Fantasy ace last season, going 17-6 with a 2.96 ERA. His performance this spring makes last year look like less of a fluke. He tends to slip in drafts because of his poor track record, but he's worth selecting as a No. 2 Fantasy SP.
News: Cubs SP Ryan Dempster allowed eight hits and four runs in six innings Saturday against the Rockies. He walked three and struck out four. The Cubs' No. 2 hurler allowed three of his four runs in the first by giving up an RBI double to Seth Smith, an RBI single to Todd Helton and a home run to Garrett Atkins. "It was a grind out there. I started to throw the ball a lot better the last few innings," Dempster said. "I didn't warm up all that great. It was frustrating, and I was getting mad at myself too much. The idea is to keep throwing pitches. I made some adjustments, and luckily we came back to score some runs." Dempster had his roughest outing of the spring, but still has a 2.70 ERA. He has allowed seven earned runs in 23 1/3 innings.
Analysis: After spending the last few years as a struggling closer who rarely had a firm grip on the job, Dempster emerged as a Fantasy ace last season, going 17-6 with a 2.96 ERA. His performance this spring makes last year look like less of a fluke. He tends to slip in drafts because of his poor track record, but he's worth selecting as a No. 2 Fantasy SP.
News: Cubs SP Ryan Dempster gave up a run and three hits in 4 1/3 innings Monday against the Athletics. He got into a one-out bases-loaded jam in the fourth but struck out Aaron Cunningham and Jack Hannahan. "It's nice to get into situations like that and get out of them, because you will have to do it in the regular season," Dempster said. The Cubs right-hander has a 1.56 ERA.
Analysis: Dempster came out of nowhere -- well, out of the bullpen, technically -- to go 17-6 with a 2.96 ERA for the Cubs last season, emerging as a Fantasy ace. His poor track record gives him a bad reputation in Fantasy, though. If Dempster slips in your draft, don't forget about him in the middle rounds. The Cubs put him in a great position to win.
News: Cubs right-hander Ryan Dempster pitched five scoreless innings against the Giants on Wednesday to drop his spring ERA to 1.38. He gave up four singles and struck out four. "The ball was coming out nice. I seemed to get ahead quite a bit today, and the hits they were getting were ahead-in-the-count type of hits. I had a good slider, good life on my ball," Dempster said. "I feel good. I feel strong."
Analysis: Dempster came out of nowhere -- well, out of the bullpen, technically -- to go 17-6 with a 2.96 ERA for the Cubs last season, emerging as a Fantasy ace. His poor track record gives him a bad reputation in Fantasy, though. If Dempster slips in your draft, don't forget about him in the middle rounds. He should plenty of run support with the Cubs.
News: Cubs SP Ryan Dempster, a candidate to be the opening day starter, allowed only two hits and recorded two strikeouts in three shutout innings Tuesday at the Mariners to get his first win of the spring. Dempster pitched a day earlier than planned because the Cubs have a day off on Wednesday.
Analysis: Dempster came out of nowhere -- well, out of the bullpen, technically -- to go 17-6 with a 2.96 ERA for the Cubs last season, emerging as a Fantasy ace. His poor track record gives him a bad reputation in Fantasy, though. If Dempster slips in your draft, don't forget about him in the middle rounds. He should plenty of run support with the Cubs.
News: Cubs starter Ryan Dempster allowed two runs and three hits in three innings in an exhibition game against the Dodgers on Friday. "I just want to continue to get better, pound the strike zone and throw as many quality strikes as possible," Dempster said.
Analysis: Dempster was 17-6 with a 2.96 ERA for the Cubs last season, a season which now slots him just outside of the top 20 starting pitchers to target on Draft Day. He did experience some neck pain before spring started, but it wasn't supposed to bother him. If Dempster slips in your draft, don't forget about him in the middle rounds. He should plenty of run support with the Cubs.
News: Cubs SP Ryan Dempster, bothered by a sore neck early this spring, allowed three unearned runs in two innings Sunday at the Padres. He yielded two hits, walked one and struck out one. "He threw the ball well," manager Lou Piniella said. "Results weren't good, but we were pleased with the way he threw it."
Analysis: Dempster was 17-6 with a 2.96 ERA for the Cubs last season, a season which now slots him just outside of the top 20 starting pitchers to target on Draft Day. Those numbers came somewhat out of nowhere, though, considering he spent the previous four seasons as a marginally effective middle reliever. If he slips in your draft, don't forget about him in the middle rounds. He should plenty of run support with the Cubs.
News: Cubs manager Lou Piniella said Dempster is a little behind this spring because of a sore neck. Dempster said it's no big deal and he hopes to pitch in an exhibition game next week. "I'm on schedule," he said. "I'm good. I'm fine." And he wants to build on last season. "I feel like I can do it again every year, not just a flash-in-the-pan or a one-time thing. I feel like I learned a lot. I learned how to pitch. I want to continue to get better. That's probably my biggest motivation."
Analysis: Dempster was 17-6 with a 2.96 ERA for the Cubs last season, a season which now slots him just outside of the top 20 starting pitchers to target on Draft Day. The return to Chicago is just about the best thing for his Fantasy value since he gets to remain with a contender. Don't worry about the neck issue, although the one-year innings jump from being a closer to being a starter should be an issue if you like to minimize risk with your top Fantasy pitchers.
News: Cubs SP Ryan Dempster has been bothered by a stiff neck but threw 50 pitches in a side session Monday. He and the Cubs agreed Tuesday on a four-year contract worth about $52 million.
Analysis: This injury doesn't sound serious and shouldn't affect Dempster's value on Draft Day. After making the transition from the bullpen back to the starting rotation last season, Dempster pitched better than ever, going 17-6 with a 2.96 ERA. His unexpected performance makes him less of a Fantasy option than his numbers would suggest, but he should still go among the top 25 starting pitchers on Draft Day.
News: Pitcher Ryan Dempster and the Cubs agreed Tuesday on a four-year contract worth about $52 million. As the Cubs' closer from 2005-07, he saved 87 games in 102 chances. But after earning a spot in the rotation during spring training, Dempster returned to the starter's role he held with the Marlins and Reds from 1998-2003. Dempster was 14-3 at Wrigley Field during the regular season after starting 10-0 on the Cubs' home field. But Wrigley was also the site of one of his worst performances when he struggled in the playoff opener against the Dodgers. Dempster threw 109 pitches in just 4 2/3 innings, giving up four runs and four hits while matching a career high seven walks. He gave up a grand slam to James Loney in the Cubs 7-2 loss and Chicago -- which had the NL's best record -- was swept out of the playoff in the first round for the second consecutive season.
Analysis: Dempster was 17-6 with a 2.96 ERA for the Cubs last season, then became a free agent after making the switch from the closer to starter. Now he is just outside of the top 20 starting pitchers to target on Draft Day. The return to Chicago is just about the best thing for his Fantasy value since he gets to remain with a contender.
News: Cubs manager Jim Hendry said two of his top priorities this offseason would be re-signing free agent pitchers Ryan Dempster and Kerry Wood.
Analysis: Back as a starter after three seasons as the Cubs closer, Dempster went 17-6 and was fourth in the league a 2.96 ERA. He was particularly good at home, going 14-3. He has suddenly emerged as one of the top starting pitchers in the league after looking like a so-so reliever. Expect to draft him among the top 25 starting pitchers next season, whether he rejoins the Cubs or not.
News: This was no way for Ryan Dempster to back up his bold prediction. The man who turned heads by forecasting the Cubs would win the World Series went wild and failed to make it out of the fifth inning as the Los Angeles Dodgers beat Chicago 7-2 Wednesday in their NL playoff opener. Dominant at Wrigley Field during the regular season, Dempster tied a career-high with seven walks and gave up a grand slam to James Loney. It certainly wasn't a good start for the All-Star or for a team looking to end a 100-year championship drought. Which is exactly what Dempster predicted the Cubs would do on the first day of spring training, even though he wasn't guaranteed a spot in the rotation. "I think we will win the World Series. I really do," he said in Arizona that day. Dempster was wild from the start, allowing runners to reach base in every inning. He threw 32 pitches in the third inning when the Dodgers got two walks and an infield single by Manny Ramirez to load the bases with two out, but Andre Ethier struck out. Ahead 2-0, Dempster wasn't as fortunate in the fifth. Rafael Furcal, Ramirez and Ethier walked to load the bases for Loney, who hit a drive far over the center-field wall with two outs for 4-2. Loney swung at and missed the first two pitches, fouled off the third and took a high fastball before connecting on a changeup. That silenced the crowd, and Matt Kemp chased Dempster with a double to left-center.
Analysis: Back as a starter after three seasons as the Cubs' closer, he went 17-6 and was fourth in the league a 2.96 ERA. He was particularly good at home in going 14-3, and that was one reason manager Lou Piniella had him start the opener over Zambrano. But in his first playoff start and second postseason appearance, Dempster found little comfort in the Friendly Confines. Think of him as a No. 2 Fantasy SP going into 2009.
News:The Sports Xchange notes that Ryan Dempster finished the regular season with an ERA of 2.96. He's the first Cubs pitcher to have a sub-3.00 ERA with at least 200 innings pitched since RHP Carlos Zambrano in 2004.
Analysis: Dempster moved from the bullpen back to the rotation in his age-31 season and became a more valuable Fantasy player than ever. He finished with 17 wins and an ERA better than 3.00, remaining consistent throughout the season. Think of him as a No. 2 Fantasy SP going into 2009.
News: Cubs SP Ryan Dempster allowed only one run on four hits in five innings Friday at Milwaukee, walking one and striking out four. He went only five innings in each of his last two starts.
Analysis: Dempster moved from the bullpen back to the rotation in his age-31 season and became a more valuable Fantasy player than ever. He finished with 17 wins and an ERA better than 3.00, remaining consistent throughout the season. Think of him as a No. 2 Fantasy SP going into 2009.
News:Ryan Dempster is scheduled to start the Chicago Cubs' playoff opener next week at Wrigley Field. The former closer was tabbed Thursday by manager Lou Piniella for Game 1 in the best-of-five division series. The NL Central champions will play the New York Mets or Los Angeles Dodgers in the first round, beginning Wednesday. If the series goes the distance, he would be in line to start Game 5 in Chicago as well. The right-hander gets his final postseason tuneup Friday night at Milwaukee.
Analysis: Dempster is 17-6 with a 2.99 ERA, including a 14-3 mark with a 2.86 ERA at home. He's earned the playoff start with his year and will enter 2009 as a high-end Fantasy starter.
News:Ryan Dempster earned his 17th victory as the Chicago Cubs kept on winning a day after clinching the NL Central title, beating the St. Louis Cardinals 5-1 Sunday in their regular-season wrapup at Wrigley Field. The victory means the Cubs (94-60) need one more win to ensure home-field advantage throughout the NL playoffs. Dempster (17-6) worked five innings, giving up six hits and a run, as the Cubs turned to a starting lineup of mostly reserves. Dempster threw 67 pitches. He finished the regular season 14-3 at Wrigley Field, the most home wins by a Cubs pitcher since Fergie Jenkins set the club record with 15 in 1967.
Analysis: Dempster will get one last start against the Brewers. Consider him a solid option in the final Fantasy Week 26 (Sept. 22-28).
News: The Chicago Cubs did what no other National League team has been able to do this season. They beat CC Sabathia. Ryan Dempster got his 16th win and Chicago sent the Milwaukee Brewers to their fifth straight loss, holding on for a 5-4 win Tuesday night that spoiled interim manager Dale Sveum's debut. Following two dominating performances by Cubs' starters, Dempster (16-6) allowed two runs and seven hits in six innings. He walked one and struck nine.
Analysis: Dempster and the Cubs have been lights out in the pitching department and he deserves to be starting in all Fantasy leagues at this time. He pitches twice this week and makes his second start Sunday against the Cardinals. It looks like it could be a very successful week for Dempster.
News: The Cubs moved Ted Lilly ahead of Ryan Dempster and Jason Marquis in the rotation, opting to start the left-hander Monday against Houston at Miller Park. Dempster pitches Tuesday, while Marquis, Rich Harden and Carlos Zambrano follow.
Analysis: Dempster gets a pair of home starts vs. the Brewers and Cardinals. Consider him a solid two-start pitcher in most leagues in Fantasy crunch time. He is 5-2 with a 2.59 ERA in the second half.
News: Cubs SP Ryan Dempster did not factor into Tuesday's decision against the Cardinals. He struck out six and walked two, while allowing seven hits over seven innings. Dempster, who has allowed homers in his last two starts after going 69 2/3 innings without surrendering a long ball, allowed Albert Pujols to homer but recovered with a perfect seventh to end his outing.
Analysis: Dempster is 4-2 over his last eight starts and has been pitching extremely well for the Cubs, who are in the middle of a pennant race. Dempster hasn't allowed more than four runs -- and he did that once -- over that span. That makes him someone to start in all Fantasy leagues. He pitches twice this week and his next start comes Sunday at Houston.
News: Astros C Humberto Quintero's RBI single off Cubs SP Ryan Dempster in the second inning Wednesday was all Randy Wolf would need as he pitched a complete game shutout in a 4-0 win for Houston. Dempster also allowed a two-run homer to Ty Wigginton in the fifth as he allowed eight hits and three runs in seven innings. He walked three and struck out seven for just his second loss in six starts.
Analysis: Dempster has allowed three or more runs in his last two starts after not having allowed more than two eight straight starts. It's nothing to get alarmed about and we don't think Dempster is breaking down. He has been pitching well all season and should remain a high-end Fantasy SP. His next scheduled start is for Tuesday against the Cardinals. He is on track to be a two-start pitcher Fantasy Week 24 (Sept. 8-14) with his second start coming against the Astros.
News:Ryan Dempster will pitch either Tuesday or Wednesday, depending on which day Carlos Zambrano pitches after he was scratched from Sunday's start.
Analysis: Either way, Dempster would be in line for just one start in Fantasy. Dempster continues to impress in his return to the rotation after spending most of four seasons in the bullpen. He remains a must-start despite his iffy outing on Thursday.
News: Cubs SP Ryan Dempster allowed four runs on eight hits in six innings Thursday against the Phillies, walking four and striking out seven. He didn't factor in the decision. He hadn't allowed more than two earned runs in any of his last seven starts.
Analysis: Dempster had a 5-1 record and a 1.76 ERA over that seven-start stretch and continues to impress in his return to the rotation after spending most of four seasons in the bullpen. He remains a must-start despite his iffy outing Thursday. His next start is scheduled for Tuesday against the Astros.
News:Ryan Dempster matched a career high with his 15th win, leading the Chicago Cubs to a 9-2 victory over the Washington Nationals on Saturday. Dempster (15-5) allowed one run in 7 1/3 innings, striking out four batters and walking one.
Analysis: Dempster improved to 12-2 in 16 home starts. On a muggy day, he retired 13 of 14 batters between the second and sixth. He hasn't lost a game since Aug. 4 and has been recording strikeouts at a very solid clip although he didn't get many on Saturday. Start him in all leagues for his next outing against Philadelphia.
News: Cubs SP Ryan Dempster (14-5) allowed two runs on five hits over six innings Saturday as Chicago defeated the Marlins 9-2. Dempster struck out 10 and walked only two.
Analysis: Dempster has won four of his last six starts and has now allowed two or fewer runs in six straight outings. In Fantasy Week 21 (Aug. 18-24), Dempster will get one start vs. Washington on Saturday. He remains a must-start in all formats with his stellar record and the fact he plays for one of the best teams in baseball.
News: Cubs SP Ryan Dempster's scheduled start Saturday at Florida was pushed back to Sunday. Manager Lou Piniella said Dempster has to attend to a personal matter and won't arrive in Miami before late Saturday. SP Sean Marshall will start Saturday's game.
Analysis: Dempster has only allowed more than two runs once in his last eight starts and has allowed no more than seven hits in any of those. He's pitching relatively deep into games and is winning for the contending Cubs. He shouldn't have any problems making Sunday's start, so keep him active in all leagues.
News:Ryan Dempster won his 13th game and the Chicago Cubs beat St. Louis 6-2 on Sunday night. Dempster improved to 13-5 on the season by going 6 2/3 inning and allowing two runs on six hits. He walked three and had six strikeouts. His ERA now stands at 2.92 on the year.
Analysis: Dempster has only allowed more than two runs once in his last eight starts and has allowed no more than seven hits in any of those. He's pitching relatively deep into games and is winning for the contending Cubs. He's someone to start in most weeks in Fantasy and should only sit when the matchups are extremely against him. He'll have a tough start on Saturday at Florida, but we still suggest giving him a whirl if you don't have a better option.
News: Cubs SP Ryan Dempster pitched well Monday against the Astros, but he had to leave after five innings because of a lengthy rain delay. He ended up suffering the loss, allowing two runs on five hits and one walk in five innings. He also recorded seven strikeouts.
Analysis: Dempster has had a dominant season with 12 wins and a 2.93 ERA for the contending Cubs. He hasn't shown any signs of slowing down, so keep him active despite the loss. His next start is scheduled for Sunday against the Cardinals.
News:Ryan Dempster pitched seven superb innings and the Chicago Cubs once again beat the Milwaukee Brewers, winning 7-2 Wednesday night. Dempster (12-4) struck out nine and gave up one run and five hits. He won consecutive road starts in the same season for the first time since 2001. The All-Star warmed up for the eighth, but was pulled to get an ovation from the large Cubs contingent following the solid outings of Ted Lilly on Monday and ace Carlos Zambrano on Tuesday.
Analysis: Dempster is once again pitching like an ace for the Cubs and continues to be a great Fantasy start in the gamut of Fantasy formats. He's a two-start pitcher in Fantasy Week 19 (Aug. 4-10) so get him starting across the board. He meets Houston in Chicago on Monday and then goes again at the end of the week at home against the Cardinals.
News: Cubs closer Ryan Dempster had an up-and-down afternoon in Friday's no decision against the Marlins. He allowed just one run off two hits and struck out six batters. But he also walked six batters and had to pitch out of jams often.
Analysis: Dempster's command abandoned him at times, but Fantasy owners got another quality start out of him. His ERA dipped below 3.00 in the start, and he's pitched well enough this season to be considered a must-start in most formats. Treat him as such for the upcoming scoring period, when he'll face the Brewers on the road.
News: Cubs SP Ryan Dempster struck out seven in eight shutout innings to earn his first road win in two years Sunday as the Chicago Cubs snapped a three-game losing streak with a 9-0 win over the Houston Astros. Dempster (11-4) allowed six hits, all singles, and picked up his first road win since June 2, 2006, at St. Louis. He's 10-1 in 12 starts at Wrigley Field this season, but was 0-3 with a 4.03 ERA in eight starts away from home before Sunday.
Analysis: Now Dempster finally has a road win this season, is there anything this guy can't do? He's playing for one of the best teams in baseball and a 20-win season might not be out of the question. In Fantasy Week 17 (July 21-27), Dempster will get one start vs. his former team, the Marlins, on Friday. He remains a must-start in all formats for the period.
News: Cubs SP Ryan Dempster will try to rebound from his first home loss of the season when he makes his first post-break start Sunday afternoon against the Astros in Houston.
Analysis: One of Dempster's four losses this season came on May 30 against the Astros when he allowed four runs on six hits over six innings in a 4-2 defeat. Dempster was owned in only 33 percent of leagues to start the season, but is now a must-start stud in all formats. Be sure to get him active for Fantasy Week 16 (July 17-20).
News:Tim Lincecum tossed eight strong innings to hand fellow All-Star Ryan Dempster his first loss at Wrigley Field, leading the San Francisco Giants to a 4-2 victory over the Chicago Cubs on Sunday. Dempster (10-4), one of eight Cubs selected for Tuesday's game at Yankee Stadium, entered with a 10-0 record in 11 home starts this season, but was upstaged by another brilliant start by Lincecum (11-2). The bottom of the Giants order hurt Dempster in the third inning. With one out, Omar Vizquel broke an 0-for-11 skid with a single to center and stole second. Tim Lincecum followed with a hard liner to right fielder Mark DeRosa, who charged the ball but couldn't get in front of it. Lincecum's drive rolled all the way to the wall, easily scoring Vizquel. Ray Durham added a two-out, two-run single later in the inning to give the Giants a 3-0 lead.
Analysis: Dempster was charged with four runs and seven hits in 6 2/3 innings. He walked three and struck out six. Dempster has allowed more than two earned runs just twice in his last seven starts. He has pitched well in the first half of the season and Fantasy owners are hoping he keeps it up in the second half. Dempster remains a high-end Fantasy SP until further notice. The Cubs have yet to announce their second-half rotation, so we are not sure when Dempster will take the hill next. His performance in the All-Star game could factor into the equation.
News:Ryan Dempster became the first Cubs pitcher in 31 years to start a season 10-0 at home and Mike Fontenot and Geovany Soto homered Tuesday night to lead Chicago to a 7-3 victory over the Cincinnati Reds. Dempster allowed two hits and a run in seven innings, while throwing 103 pitches on a muggy night at Wrigley Field. He walked four and struck out five for his first win in three starts.
Analysis: The All-Star Dempster (10-3) is the first Cubs' pitcher to win his first 10 decisions at home since Rick Reuschel in 1977. He is 0-3 with a 4.03 ERA in eight road starts this season, but the right-hander is still doing a bang up job for Fantasy owners and has emerged as a high-end option. His next scheduled start is for Sunday at home against the Giants. Dempster took a no decision against San Francisco in his previous start after allowing two runs in six innings.
News: Cubs SP Ryan Dempster pitched six strong innings Wednesday against the Giants, but was denied his first road win in more than two years after Carlos Marmol gave up Ray Durham's three-run homer in the seventh inning that tied the game at 5. A closer for the Cubs last season, the right-hander gave up two runs on five hits while striking out seven. His only mistake came in the sixth when he gave up a two-run homer to John Bowker. Dempster walked two as he took his third no decision in six starts.
Analysis: Demspter rebounded nicely after getting tagged for eight runs in 2 1/3 innings Friday against the White Sox. He has allowed two or fewer earned runs in four of his last five starts and continues to perform well as a starter. Treat Dempster as a high-end Fantasy SP. His next scheduled start is for Tuesday against the Cubs. He is on track to be a two-start pitcher Fantasy Week 15 (July 7-13) with his second start coming against the Giants. Both starts are at home where Dempster is 9-0 with a 2.71 ERA.
News: Cubs SP Ryan Dempster (9-3), who is 9-0 at home but 0-3 on the road, lasted only 2 1/3 innings Thursday at the White Sox, giving up seven hits and eight runs in shortest outing since joining the rotation this season. He walked three and struck out one in the loss, giving up a grand slam to Nick Swisher. "You're one pitch from getting out of it with the bases loaded. I was 1-2 on Nick, and I made a mistake," Dempster said. "If I get that pitch where I needed to get it, maybe that's a different result. Unfortunately they don't have do-overs and you can't get mulligans in baseball."
Analysis: Dempster entered 4-0 in his last six starts without allowing more than three earned runs in any of those games. The most runs he had allowed previously this season was four, which he did twice. He still has an ERA of 3.26, so don't judge him off this one start. He remains a must-start in Fantasy. His next start is scheduled for Wednesday at San Francisco.
News:Ryan Dempster won his ninth straight this season at Wrigley Field and the Chicago Cubs beat the crosstown-rival White Sox 7-1 to finish off the three-game sweep Sunday. Dempster (9-2), who moved from closer back to starter this season, allowed 10 hits and a run in eight-plus innings, leaving after giving up back-to-back singles in the ninth. He walked one and struck out four. The only run scored off Dempster came via a RBI single by Joe Crede in the sixth.
Analysis: Dempster is 4-0 in his last six starts and has not allowed more than three earned runs in any of those games. He almost had his second complete game in his last three starts, but tired in the ninth Sunday. Something has really gotten into Dempster since he wasn't this good of a starting pitcher in his early years. Right now, Dempster is a high-end Fantasy SP. His next scheduled start is in a rematch against the White Sox on Friday.
News: Cubs SP Ryan Dempster dueled with Rays SP Scott Kazmir Tuesday and ended up taking a no decision against Tampa Bay. Dempster allowed only one run on a Cliff Floyd homer in the second. He allowed six hits and two walks while striking out six. "They're a good team. I've seen that all year," Dempster said. "They've got a real good pitching staff. They've got a good bullpen. They've got a lot of good young players." Dempster threw 107 pitches in five innings.
Analysis: Dempster pitched well enough to win a fourth straight decision Tuesday, but just couldn't get enough run support. Dempster has not allowed more than three earned runs in his last five starts. Something has really gotten into him since he wasn't this good of a starting pitcher in his early years. Right now, Dempster is a high-end Fantasy SP. His next scheduled start is for Sunday against the White Sox.
News:Ryan Dempster (8-2) pitched a four-hitter and struck out 11 Wednesday night against Atlanta in his first complete game since Sept. 25, 2002, when he led Cincinnati over the Cubs. Dempster, the closer-turned-starter, is now 8-0 this season at Wrigley Field. The Cubs improved to 28-8 at home this year. He gave up two earned runs and walked none, lowering his ERA to 2.81 on the year.
Analysis: Dempster has now won his last three decisions and after failing to get past the fifth inning in his last two, showed he can go the distance Wednesday. Dempster is having a career year in 2008 after being removed from the closer's role. As long as he continues to pitch well and the Cubs continue to win, Dempster remains a solid Fantasy SP. His next scheduled start comes Tuesday at Tampa Bay.
News: Cubs SP Ryan Dempster allowed three runs and five hits in 5 1/3 innings in his 400th big league appearance Thursday against the Dodgers. Unfortunately, he took a no decision after the bullpen blew a 4-3 in the eighth. He walked two and struck out one. Dempster held L.A. off the scoreboard until the fifth inning when Chin-lung Hu tripled to deep right with one out to score Blake Dewitt. Dempster allowed a solo homer to Jeff Kent in the sixth, but still was in line for the win before leaving the game.
Analysis: Dempster should have won his third straight start Thursday, but those are the breaks of baseball. Dempster is having a career year in 2008 after being removed from the closer's role. As long as he continues to pitch well and the Cubs continue to win, Dempster remains a solid Fantasy SP. His next scheduled start is for Wednesday against the Braves.
News:Ryan Dempster (7-2) struggled with his command and lasted just five innings, but managed to get the win against the Rockies Saturday. He walked four, hit a batter with a pitch and was charged with three runs and three hits. He struck out seven hitters.
Analysis: Dempster has 41 strikeouts since May 5, which puts him with the league leaders for the month. He has emerged as a high-end Fantasy SP. His next scheduled start is for Thursday at Dodger Stadium.
News:Ryan Dempster sweated through a T-shirt an inning and five jerseys on a muggy afternoon. He was a picture of cool on the mound, though. Derrek Lee and Aramis Ramirez homered to back Dempster, and the Chicago Cubs beat the Los Angeles Dodgers 3-1 Monday. Lee hit a two-run drive in the first inning off Chad Billingsley (4-6) for his 250th home run, and Ramirez added a solo homer against Scott Proctor in the eighth. That was enough for Dempster, who's making a case for an All-Star selection after being converted back to a starter. "Nothing's easy about it," he said. "It's been hard work."Dempster (6-2) allowed one run and seven hits in seven innings before Bob Howry and Kerry Wood finished. He walked three and struck out three.
Analysis: Dempster gave up a run-scoring infield single to Juan Pierre in the fifth and escaped a bases-loaded jam in the sixth. After a visit from pitching coach Larry Rothschild., Dempster struck out Blake DeWitt on a check swing and retired Luis Maza on a flyout. "I think early in the season I'm showing them that I'm strong enough to keep going and bounce back," Dempster said. "I'd like to think I've got as good a chance in that situation as anybody." Dempster lowered his ERA to 2.56 Monday and has looked as good as any Cubs pitcher this season, including Carlos Zambrano. He has emerged as a high-end Fantasy SP. His next scheduled start is for Saturday against the Rockies.
News: Cubs SP Ryan Dempster suffered his second loss of the season Tuesday against the Astros, but he didn't pitch all that poorly. He allowed six hits and four runs with five strikeouts in six innings, walking two. He gave up all four of his runs on a Hunter Pence grand slam.
Analysis: Dempster entered the game with a 0.89 ERA and 0.89 WHIP over his last three starts, striking out 26 in 20 1/3 innings. Considering he gave up all of his runs Tuesday on one hit, we wouldn't say he regressed too much. He looks like he has a skill set similar to that of John Maine and has emerged as a must-start in Fantasy. His next start is scheduled for Monday against the Dodgers.
News: Cubs SP Ryan Dempster (5-1) struck out a career-high 12 and hit an RBI single during a four-run fifth inning, leading the Chicago Cubs over the sorry San Diego Padres 4-0 on Thursday. Dempster went 8 1/3 shutout innings, allowing six hits and one walk, while lowering his ERA to 2.35.
Analysis: Dempster has gone at least six innings and allowed three or fewer runs in eight of his nine starts this season as he continues to impress since returning to his former life as a starter. In Fantasy Week 8 (May 19-25), Dempster will get one start on Tuesday at Houston. While Minute Maid Park is a hitter's paradise, Dempster is pitching superbly in 2008 and deserves to be a starter in the majority of formats for the time being.
News: Forget about the big matchup between Big Z and the Big Unit. The Chicago Cubs and Arizona Diamondbacks held Carlos Zambrano and Randy Johnson out of Sunday's game because of heavy rain, strong winds and temperatures in the 40s in Chicago. Instead, the Cubs' Sean Gallagher was to make his first start of the season, with Edgar Gonzalez taking the mound for the Diamondbacks, who were trying to avoid a three-game sweep. Zambrano is scheduled to pitch Monday against San Diego, but the rotation is unclear beyond that.
Analysis: The only real loser in this scenario is Cubs' fifth starter Jon Lieber, who was scheduled to pitch Tuesday against the Padres. Jason Marquis, Monday's starter, will likely be pushed back until Tuesday and followed by Ted Lilly and Ryan Dempster. Lieber is then likely to open a three-game series against the Pirates Friday, followed by Zambrano and Marquis. Lilly and Dempster are viable mixed league Fantasy SPs, while Lieber and Marquis are more NL-only options.
News: Cubs SP Ryan Dempster limited the Diamondbacks to only two runs on three hits Saturday, but didn't pick up the win in a 7-2 defeat of Arizona. Dempster left after striking out seven and walking three in six innings, with the score 2-1 in favor of the D-Backs.
Analysis: The Cubs offense came through just one inning too late on Saturday for Dempster to pick up his fifth win of the season. His ERA is now down to a superb 2.76, and he's looking like the Dempster of 2000 that went 14-10 with a 3.86 ERA. In Fantasy Week 7 (May 12-18), Dempster will get one start, against the Padres and Greg Maddux on Thursday. Consider him a solid start for most formats in that period as a low-end SP.
News: The Reds ended a five-game losing streak with a 5-3 win Monday against the Cubs by taking advantage of a pair of errors that set up five unearned runs off Ryan Dempster (4-1), who lost for the first time since switching from closer to starter. Mike Fontenot's fielding error -- the second baseman rushed trying to start a potential inning-ending double play -- set up three unearned runs in the first. Third baseman Mark DeRosa then let Edwin Encarnacion's grounder get past him with two outs in the third, and Adam Dunn followed with his fifth homer -- a 463-foot drive -- for a 5-1 lead. Dempster allowed just four hits and one walk while striking out seven in six strong innings.
Analysis: Dempster actually outpitched his counterpart Johnny Cueto Monday, but two costly mistakes gave him his first loss. Tough break. Dempster did lower his ERA to 2.72 and looks comfortable starting once again. Perhaps he has become a reliable No. 4 or No. 5 Fantasy SP in mixed leagues pitching for the contending Cubs. His next scheduled start is for Sunday against the Diamondbacks.
News: Cubs SP Ryan Dempster allowed three runs and four hits in six innings Wednesday against the Brewers and got more than enough run support in a 19-5 win. Dempster's only big mistakes were to Ryan J. Braun, who had a RBI single in the third and two-RBI double in the fifth. Dempster survived five walks and struck out one.
Analysis: Dempster has won four of his six starts this season and has not allowed more than four earned runs in any outing. The move from closer to starter is paying off big time for all parties involved, including Fantasy owners. Since Dempster is not a big strikeout guy, he still remains just a No. 5 or No. 6 Fantasy SP in mixed leagues. His next scheduled start is for Monday against the Reds, a team he beat April 15. He is on track to be a two-start pitcher Fantasy Week 6 (May 5-11) with his second start coming against the Diamondbacks.
News: Cubs SP Ryan Dempster continued his fine work in his transition back to the starting rotation this season, going seven strong innings at Washington on Friday. He allowed three runs -- two earned -- on four hits and three walks, striking out five. He did not factor in the decision, however.
Analysis: After two great starts to open the season, Dempster struggled a little in his last two, allowing four runs in six innings against the Reds and three in five against the Pirates. He certainly got back on the right track Friday, though, and is looking like a serviceable low-end mixed-league Fantasy SP. His next start is scheduled for Wednesday against the Brewers.
News: Cuns SP Ryan Dempster was lifted for a pinch hitter in the fifth inning Sunday against the Pirates, but thanks to plenty of run support, he didn't need to pitch exert any more energy. Dempster moved to 3-0 as Chicago won 13-5. He allowed three runs, five hits and two walks in five innings. He struck out three and didn't allow a home run. He has won his last two starts despite allowing seven runs in 11 innings.
Analysis: Dempster has been hit hard in his last two starts after allowing just one run in his first two starts. But as you can see, Chicago has such a good offense that Dempster can still be a winner most nights out. Treat him as a No. 5 Fantasy SP in mixed leagues. Dempster's next scheduled start is for Friday against the Nationals.
News: Cubs closer-turned-starter Ryan Dempster (2-0) gave up five hits and four runs in six-plus innings during Tuesday's 9-5 win against the Reds. He left during the seventh when the Reds loaded the bases with no outs but scored only one run, thanks to stellar defensive plays by Mike Fontenot at second and Derrek Lee at first. Dempster did issue five walks and struck out three while allowing a two-run homer to Ken Griffey Jr. in the third inning.
Analysis: Dempster allowed a total of one earned run in his first two starts, so he did take a little step back Tuesday. However, the move back to starter seems to be working well and Dempster appears to be a lock for the rotation for the considerable future. Treat him as a No. 5 Fantasy SP in mixed leagues. His next scheduled start is for Sunday against the Pirates. Dempster didn't allow an earned run in seven innings during a no decision last Wednesday against Pittsburgh.
News:Ryan Dempster pitched seven innings in his second start in almost three years for Chicago, allowing one hit and only one Pirates baserunner to reach second Wednesday night at Pittsburgh. He walked two and struck out five, retiring 20 of the final 21 batters he faced.
Analysis: Dempster had started only six games during his first four seasons with the Cubs. In a bit of irony, former starter Kerry Wood is a week and a half into his new role as a closer. Wood's blown save cost Dempster his 61st career victory. He now has exactly five strikeouts in each of his first two starts this season, having gone at least six innings in each. He's really looking like an early-season surprise sleeper in Fantasy leagues and is worth a start in even mixed formats for Fantasy Week 3 as he'll be lined up for two starts.
News: Former closer Ryan Dempster was a winner in his return to the rotation, Aramis Ramirez homered and Alfonso Soriano had two RBI Thursday as the Chicago Cubs beat the Milwaukee Brewers 6-3. Surviving a shaky first when the Brewers scored twice, Dempster (1-0) settled down and allowed just three hits in six innings with two walks and five strikeouts to win as a starter for the first time since April 16, 2005. Rickie Weeks led off with a walk and moved to third on Tony Gwynn's double. Chicago right fielder Kosuke Fukudome made a strong throw to the plate after catching Prince Fielder's fly, but Weeks knocked Geovany Soto down before he could catch the ball. The ball rolled away and Dempster retrieved it, but his throw to Soto couldn't get Gwynn, who also raced home and made it 2-0. Fukudome was charged with an error on the throw.
Analysis: Dempster, charged with only one earned run, made his first start Thursday since May 4, 2005 -- when he was in his second season with the Cubs, began the year in the rotation and then became the closer. He had 87 saves from 2004 through last season. With the Marlins in 2000 and 2001, Dempster won 29 games as a member of the Florida Marlins' rotation from 2000-01 before his career was sidetracked in 2003 by elbow ligament-replacement surgery. He passed test one, now comes his second start Wednesday against the Pirates. He remains a NL-only and larger mixed league flier.
News:Ryan Dempster spent the spring proving himself as a starter again, and his final tuneup for the Cubs was a success. The right-hander allowed one run and six hits in four innings Saturday at the Mariners. He struck out four and walk none.
Analysis: Dempster was a starter with Florida and Cincinnati before spending almost all of the past four seasons in the Cubs' bullpen. He saved 85 games from 2005-07. He will make his first regular-season start of 2008 against the Brewers in Chicago on Thursday. In terms of Fantasy value, Dempster opens the year as the Cubs' fifth-best starter -- even though he will slot third in the rotation at the outset. He is merely an NL-only option.
News: Cubs SP Ryan Dempster, recently named the team's third starter, allowed four runs on eight hits and three walks in 4 2/3 innings Sunday against the Rangers. He struck out five.
Analysis: Dempster had more Fantasy value as a closer, but the offensively potent and contending Cubs could make him a candidate to win double-digit games. In terms of Fantasy value, Dempster opens the year as the Cubs' fifth-best starter -- even though he will slot third in the rotation at the outset.
News: Manager Lou Piniella had considered sending Ryan Dempster back to the bullpen. Instead, the right-hander remains in the third spot between lefties Ted Lilly and Rich Hill, with the final spot going to Jason Marquis even though Jon Lieber has a 1.80 ERA.
Analysis: Dempster had more Fantasy value as a closer, but the offensively potent and contender Cubs could make him a candidate to win double-digit games. In terms of Fantasy value, Dempster opens the year as the Cubs' fifth-best starter -- even though he will slot third in the rotation at the outset.
News: The Cubs bullpen collapse Wednesday against the A's and another lackluster game at the plate put a damper on a great start for Ryan Dempster, who allowed a hit and two walks in 5 1/3 scoreless innings. "I was glad to high-five some people today," Dempster said after the 5-2 loss. "It felt better. Those five days cant come fast enough. That's the way I've been throwing the ball all spring. I just had a little hiccup." Said manager Lou Piniella: "He threw as well as ever." Dempster struck out seven hitters Wednesday.
Analysis: Dempster is 2-1 with a 4.50 ERA in five spring starts spanning 16 innings. He also has 13 strikeouts as he continues to vie for a spot in the Cubs rotation. The Cubs clearly think he has potential for them to have taken the effort to move him out of the bullpen. Consider him nothing more than a high-risk option for NL-only leagues.
News: Cubs RHPs Jon Lieber and Ryan Dempster have moved closer to securing spots in the rotation, according to The Sports Xchange, joining RHP Carlos Zambrano, LHP Ted Lilly and LHP Rich Hill. The odd men out could be LHP Sean Marshall, who has minor-league options remaining, and RHP Jason Marquis, who has been the subject of trade rumors. If the Cubs don't move Marquis, he would go to the bullpen if he doesn't crack the rotation.
Analysis: Dempster struggled in his last start Friday, but the Cubs clearly think he has potential for them to have taken the effort to move him out of the bullpen. Consider him nothing more than a high-risk option for NL-only leagues, though.
News: Cubs P Ryan Dempster would like to ignore his most recent outing when it comes to evaluating his spring. Dempster failed to make it out of the second inning Friday against the Angels. After three years as the Cubs' closer, Dempster is trying to move into the starting rotation. He gave up six runs -- five earned -- in the second after needing just six pitches to get out of the first. "I got a couple pitches up and paid for it," Dempster said. "It feels more like a wasted day than anything. You don't extend yourself. It wasn't my best work. You're going to have times like those, but I don't think it's indicative of the way I've been throwing the ball."
Analysis: Dempster has an uphill battle for the rotation and could be anywhere from the No. 4 starter to closer to nothing more than a middle reliever. Since the Cubs are a quality contender, consider him a sleeper in deeper leagues.
News: Cubs SP Ryan Dempster looks ready for the rotation. The right-hander pitched four innings of one-hit ball Sunday at the Royals. Dempster, who had 28 saves last season, allowed one run. He walked two and struck out two. "I felt like I was a pretty darn good starter before I got hurt," Dempster said. "I believe in myself. I know what I did." Dempster had major elbow surgery in 2003 with the Cincinnati Reds, and the Cubs made him a closer in 2005. He won 39 games as a starter with the Reds and Florida Marlins from 2000-02 before the surgery. Dempster is hoping to fill one of two vacancies in Chicago's rotation. "There's a lot of talk about it, but I don't concern myself with it," he said. "I feel good stamina-wise and arm-wise. I threw a lot of good sinkers, kept the ball down around the knees."
Analysis: Dempster has an uphill battle for the rotation and could be anywhere from the No. 4 starter to closer to nothing more than a middle reliever. Since the Cubs are a quality contender, consider him a sleeper in deeper leagues.
News:Ryan Dempster is trying to make the transition from closer to starting pitcher. So far, so good. After a 32-pitch first inning, Dempster rebounded to work three innings in the Chicago Cubs' 10-6 loss to the Milwaukee Brewers Tuesday. Dempster was the first Chicago pitcher to go three innings this spring. "I kind of got away from game plan a little bit in the first," Dempster said. "I just settled down after that, got some good work in and attacked the strike zone again. It's a good day's work."
Analysis: Dempster began his career as a starter with the Florida Marlins in 1998. He underwent reconstructive elbow surgery in 2003 while with Cincinnati. The Cubs converted him to a closer in 2005. Now, Dempster is looking to return to the rotation. "I just try and make pitches and get outs and keep the at-bats short," he said. "After that inning, it seemed like I had three or four pitches at most to every hitter. That's ultimately what you're trying to do, get quick outs. By doing that. I allowed myself to throw three innings today rather than two or a little less than three." Dempster has an up-hill battle for the rotation and could be anywhere from the No. 4 starter to closer to nothing more than a middle reliever. Since the Cubs are a quality contender, consider him a sleeper in deeper leagues.
News: Cubs RP Ryan Dempster, vying for the fifth spot in the rotation, picked up a win in his first spring start Thursday against the Giants. His only mistake in two innings was a solo home run to Randy Winn. He allowed two hits and struck out two.
Analysis: Dempster has an up-hill battle for the rotation and could be anywhere from the No. 4 starter to closer to nothing more than a middle reliever. Since the Cubs are a quality contender, consider him a sleeper in deeper leagues, but we are figuring he winds up in a setup role when it is all said and done.
News:The Sports Xchange reports Cubs pitcher Ryan Dempster appears to be winning over manager Lou Piniella in his bid to move from the closer's role to the rotation. Dempster is in great physical shape, and Piniella has raved about how he has thrown the ball in the early going. Piniella named Dempster to start the Cubs' Cactus League opener.
Analysis: Dempster has an up-hill battle for the rotation and could be anywhere from the No. 4 starter to closer to nothing more than a middle reliever. Since the Cubs are a quality contender, consider him a sleeper in deeper leagues, but we are figuring he winds up in a setup role when it is all said and done.
News:Ryan Dempster, trying to make the switch from closer to the rotation, will start the spring training opener against the Giants on Feb. 28. Carlos Zambrano and Jason Marquis will get the starting nods the next two games. "I guess that means the sooner you start, the more innings you get to throw," Dempster said. "It's cool."
Analysis: Dempster has an up-hill battle for the rotation and could be anywhere from the No. 4 starter to closer to nothing more than a middle reliever. Since the Cubs are a quality contender, consider him a sleeper in deeper leagues, but we are figuring he winds up in a setup role when it is all said and done. Zambrano is a top 15 Fantasy ace, while Marquis is also competing for a rotation spot. Marquis' salary suggests he would have to be pretty awful to not start the season in the rotation and have value in deeper leagues on Draft Day.
News: Even though he converted 28 of 31 chances last year -- despite a stint on the DL with a strained oblique muscle -- Ryan Dempster knows how fickle the closer's job can be. There can be a perfect ninth one day or a game like he had last May 17, when he gave up five runs in the ninth inning against the Mets in New York. He was 2-7 last season with a 4.73 ERA in 66 appearances and will compete to start this spring. "Now I got a chance to go out there and give up a run and it's not going to be the game," Dempster said. "That's the truth. You can be a starter and give up three runs in the first and go six more innings and everybody talks about what a great job you did. If you are closing, you give up one run and sometimes they want to run you out."
Analysis: One of the most successful double switches for a pitcher was pulled off by Atlanta's John Smoltz, who went from top-notch starter to stellar closer and then back to the rotation. "It's not going to be easy going from 70 innings a year to 200. But I feel good and more importantly my arm feels good," Dempster said. Consider Dempster nothing more than a risky starter for deeper leagues if he even makes the rotation. It is more likely he winds up in middle relief, waiting for some chances this season. "I believe if you are stronger in the lower abs, you can withstand going out and making 30 starts," he said. "I know I'm going to have a good year. I really do. I learned a lot the past few years and I'm looking forward to starting. I'm not worried. Things will take care of themselves."
News:Kerry Wood, whose career has been plagued by an assortment of injuries and trips to the disabled list since he was NL Rookie of the Year in 1998, made a surprising recovery from shoulder problems last year and pitched 22 times out of the bullpen over the final two months. He was 1-1 with a 3.33 ERA. Now the 30-year-old Wood, who has started 178 games in his career, could be the Cubs' closer. With Ryan Dempster moving to the rotation, that role will go to Wood, Bob Howry or Carlos Marmol. "Whatever role I end up doing, obviously I want to go out and pitch and be successful and feel strong doing it. We've got plenty of guys down there who could go it. We're in a good situation," Wood said Thursday. "Obviously it would be an exciting role to be in, but is it a goal? My goal is just to go out and get through spring training and be ready to go when the season starts, whatever role that will be."
Analysis: Marmol has the best chance in our estimation going into the spring, if the Cubs feel they can trust his young arm. Wood would be a lock if there was any certainty he could stay healthy for a full season. Howry was the temporary closer last year over Marmol, while Dempster was rumored to move to starting because he couldn't hack the closer's role. If we had to rank the Cubs' closer options we would go: Marmol, Wood, Howry and then Dempster at this point.
News: Manager Lou Piniella said the Cubs will probably settle on a closer about three-quarters of the way through spring training. Bob Howry, Carlos Marmol and Kerry Wood are the top candidates and there is an outside chance Ryan Dempster could move back.
Analysis: Marmol has the best chance in our estimation going into the spring, if the Cubs feel they can trust his young arm. Wood would be a lock if there was any certainty he could stay healthy for a full season. Howry was the temporary closer last year over Marmol, while Dempster was rumored to move to starting because he couldn't hack the closer's role. If we had to rank the Cubs' closer options we would go: Marmol, Wood, Howry and then Dempster at this point.
News:The Sports Xchange reports Ryan Dempster still is considered a candidate for a spot in the rotation even though the Cubs have enough candidates heading into spring training. "Our intention is to bring Ryan to camp and let him compete in the rotation," Cubs general manager Jim Hendry said. "If he's not one of the best five, then you start talking about him going back to the 'pen. We're going to give him a fair shot."
Analysis: Dempster has been the closer the past three seasons. Dempster was an erratic closer, but he has far more Fantasy value trying to save games than starting them. The Cubs are a contender that can make him a winner, but he would be nothing more than a low-end Fantasy starting pitcher best left for deeper leagues on Draft Day -- if he even won a rotation spot in spring training. It is possible Dempster loses out on the rotation and gets stuck in middle relief, so track his news closely in camp before drafting the 30-year-old right-hander.
News: Cubs GM Jim Hendry said it is no secret the Cubs could like to re-sign Kerry Wood, who made a surprising recovery from shoulder problems to join the bullpen. Wood was 1-1 with a 3.33 ERA in 22 appearances and has spent his entire career with Chicago, winning Rookie of the Year in 1998. With closer Ryan Dempster expected to get a shot at joining the rotation, Wood would be a valuable member of the bullpen, even though he spent the majority of his career as a starter. "If Kerry at the end of the day wants to be here, he'll know we want him here and hopefully we'll get something worked out," Hendry said.
Analysis: Dempster was an erratic closer, but he has far more Fantasy value trying to save games than starting them. The Cubs are a contender that can make him a winner, but he would be nothing more than a low-end Fantasy starting pitcher best left for deeper leagues on Draft Day -- if he even won a rotation spot in spring training. It is possible Dempster loses out on the rotation and gets stuck in middle relief, so track his news closely in camp before drafting the 30-year-old right-hander.
News: Cubs RP Ryan Dempster (dehydration) returned to action Friday against the Pirates during a non-save situation. He allowed two hits and one run in one inning. He struck out one.
Analysis: Dempster has allowed at least one run in four of his last six appearances. He is back to being an unreliable pitcher after such a good run in August. He still remains a viable Fantasy option for saves down the stretch, just expect some inconsistency.
News: RHP Ryan Dempster was not available for Wednesday's game against St. Louis after suffering from dehydration.
Analysis: Consider Dempster a decent option at the closer position down the stretch, especially since the contending Cubs could get him consistent save opportunities.
News: Ryan Dempster pitched a scoreless ninth Sunday for his 28th save in 31 opportunities.
Analysis: Demspter has struggled but saves games on back-to-back days over the weekend. Consider him a sleeper at the closer position down the stretch, especially since the contending Cubs could get him consistent save opportunities.
News: Cubs RP Ryan Dempster -- who entered Friday's game in a non-save situation and promptly made it one, allowing two runs in 2/3 of an inning before Bob Howry bailed him out -- recovered Saturday with a perfect ninth at St. Louis. He struck out two to preserve the 3-2 lead and record his 27th save.
Analysis: Dempster has been his usual unreliable self in September, allowing at least one run in five of his nine appearances. Despite his recent struggles, he remains a viable source for saves pitching for the contending Cubs. Just expect some inconsistency from the righty.
News: Cubs RP Ryan Dempster, who lost Tuesday's game in the 11th inning when he gave up a walkoff triple, earned his 26th save in 29 chances despite allowing a run in the ninth inning Wednesday against the Astros. He allowed two hits and one walk before working out of trouble for his first save since Sept. 2.
Analysis: Dempster has been his usual unreliable self in September, allowing at least one run in four of his seven appearances. Despite his recent struggles, he still remains a viable source for saves pitching for the contending Cubs. Just expect some inconsistency from the righty.
News: Ryan Dempster (2-6) walked Mark Loretta with one out in the 11th and Eric Bruntlett pinch-ran. Luke Scott followed with the game-winner. "I made a stupid pitch," Dempster said, without waiting for reporters to ask him a question. "I walked a guy, made a stupid pitch and lost the game." With that, Dempster finished buttoning his shirt and left the clubhouse.
Analysis: Dempster remains a sleeper for saves in deeper leagues down the stretch, especially since the Cubs are a contender that could get him consistent save chances. Dempster might blow them, but at least he will get chances (insert smiley face here).
News: Dodgers OF Andre Ethier connected on a three-run, pinch-homer in the ninth off Cubs closer Ryan Dempster Thursday, capping a four-run rally and dealing Dempster his fifth loss and third blown save of the season. Entering the ninth inning with a 4-3 lead, Dempster surrendered a total of five hits and four runs in two-thirds of an inning. "These are big games. That was a tough loss," said Dempster. "I didn't put guys away, and that's what you are supposed to do in that situation."
Analysis: Dempster had converted 13 straight save chances, and he has 25 saves on the season. Pitching for the contending Cubs, he makes a solid source for saves down the stretch, Thursday's outing notwithstanding.
News: Ryan Dempster pitched a perfect ninth inning Sunday vs. Houston for his 25th save for the Cubs.
Analysis: Dempster has eight saves since Aug. 17 and has been solid since Lou Piniella said he would remove him from full-time closer. That doesn't appear to be the case anymore. He is a solid option for saves in most leagues down the stretch.
News: Cubs RP Ryan Dempster pitched around a home run by Carlos Lee in the ninth inning Saturday against the Astros for his 24th save in 26 chances.
Analysis: Dempster has seven saves since Aug. 17 and has been solid since Lou Piniella said he would remove him from full-time closer. That doesn't appear to be the case anymore. Dempster is a solid option for saves in most leagues down the stretch.
News: The Brewers loaded the bases against Ryan Dempster in the ninth inning Thursday. Pinch-hitter Joe Dillon doubled and Rickie Weeks was hit by a pitch. J.J. Hardy sacrificed and Prince Fielder was walked intentionally one out later to load the bases. Dempster then walked Corey Hart to force in a run before getting Kevin Mench to ground into a fielder's choice to short for his 23rd save in 25 chances. Thursday was the first run Dempster allowed in his last 11 appearances.
Analysis: Dempster has six saves since Aug. 17 and has been solid since Lou Piniella said he would remove him from full-time closer. That doesn't appear to be the case anymore. Dempster is a solid option for saves in most leagues down the stretch.
News: Bobby Howry pitched a scoreless eighth Tuesday and Ryan Dempster pitched a perfect ninth for his 22nd save in 24 chances.
Analysis: Howry is nothing more than a middle reliever for the deepest of leagues that use true middle men, while Dempster is hot and a solid option for saves in most leagues down the stretch.
News: RHP Ryan Dempster has converted nine straight save opportunities.
Analysis: Dempster is not a completely trustworthy closer, but he's a solid one for deeper leagues down the stretch, especially since the Cubs are a contender that can get him consistent save opportunities.
News: Cubs RP Ryan Dempster got one out in the ninth inning during Friday's 6-2 win over the Diamondbacks for his 21st save in 23 chances. He now has four saves since Aug. 17.
Analysis: Dempster has been solid in his last nine appearances, spanning 8 1/3 innings. He has not allowed a run and just two hits. Dempster is no longer the full-time closer for the Cubs and that hurts his Fantasy value in mixed leagues. He is still likely to get most of the chances, but should be considered a low-end option at this time.
News: Ryan Dempster got the final three outs at San Francisco Wednesday for his 20th save in 22 chances.
Analysis: Dempster is no longer the full-time closer for the Cubs and that hurts his Fantasy value in mixed leagues. He is still likely to get most of the chances, but should be considered a low-end option at this time.
News: Cubs RP Ryan Dempster pitched a perfect ninth inning during Saturday's 5-3 win over the Cardinals for his 19th save in 21 opportunities. Dempster has now converted saves on consecutive days and has not allowed a run in his last six appearances.
Analysis: Dempster is no longer the full-time closer for the Cubs and that hurts his Fantasy value in mixed leagues. He is still likely to get most of the chances, but should be considered a low-end option at this time.
News: Cubs RP Ryan Dempster worked the ninth inning of Friday's 2-1 win over the Cardinals for his 18th save in 20 chances. He pitched a perfect frame, but did not record a strikeout. It was his first save since Aug. 3.
Analysis: Dempster is no longer the full-time closer for the Cubs and that hurts his Fantasy value in mixed leagues. He is still likely to get most of the chances, but should be considered a low-end option at this time.
News: Closer Ryan Dempster said he'll still take the approach he is going to finish games, although manager Lou Piniella said last week he'll also use Bob Howry and Carlos Marmol in that role. Piniella said he has an understanding with Dempster, who needs more work and hasn't been as sharp since coming off the DL with an oblique strain.
Analysis: Marmol has the most long-term potential, but Dempster is likely to get most of the save chances. Consider him the primary source of saves in deeper leagues. Howry and Marmol are far more intriguing than most middle relievers now.
News: Manager Lou Piniella said RHP Ryan Dempster, the team leader in saves with 17, will be used in the seventh, eighth and ninth innings to get him more work. "We'd like to get him back to where he was prior to the oblique problem. Sometimes in that closer's role you don't get work, and you need work," Piniella said.
Analysis: Dempster is a streaky closer for deeper Fantasy leagues at this point. His best attributes are the contender he pitches for and the fact the Cubs are sticking with him as their lone closer.
News: RHP Ryan Dempster was booed heavily by the Wrigley Field crowd Friday when he gave up four runs in the ninth inning of a 6-2 loss to the Mets. The previous time he faced the Mets, the Cubs closer came into a May 17 game at Shea Stadium with a 5-1 lead and gave up five runs. He obviously has had his trouble with the Mets, but manager Lou Piniella is not ready to pull the plug on Dempster and insert Bob Howry or young Carlos Marmol as the main closer. "Ryan's our closer," Piniella said. "I've got confidence in him. I don't have an explanation as to why (New York) hits him. I don't know if it's a fluke, or they have his pitches, or they feel good against him -- I don't know. I've got confidence he can get the job done, and we'll go from there."
Analysis: Dempster gave up a run against the Mets in mop-up duty in the ninth inning Sunday night. He remains a must-start in all NL-only leagues and some mixed formats heading into Fantasy Week 19 (Aug. 6-12).
News: Ryan Dempster allowed an earned run, hit, walk and a strikeout in Sunday's game at Chicago Cubs in an inning of work. He has allowed nine earned run in 2 1/3 innings against the Mets in three appearances with an 0-1 record and 30.38 ERA. Against the rest of the league, he has a 2.23 ERA.
Analysis: Dempster is happy to see the Mets on a plane leaving Chicago, as he has absolutely been tattooed by them ths season. He remains a must-start in all NL-only leagues and some mixed formats heading into Fantasy Week 19 (Aug. 6-12).
News: Carlos Delgado hit a go-ahead double off Ryan Dempster in a four-run ninth inning, and the New York Mets beat the Chicago Cubs 6-2 Friday to extend their winning streak to three. Delgado's double off Dempster (2-4) followed a leadoff walk to David Wright as the Mets (62-47) moved 15 games over .500 for the first time since early June. Delgado scored on Shawn Green's two-out double inside the third-base line for a 4-2 lead. Delgado, who now has 25 doubles, drew four walks in the game. Green came in on an RBI single by Ruben Gotay, pinch-hitter Moises Alou singled and Jose Reyes got the Mets' fifth hit of the inning, another run-scoring single that led to boos among the 41,512 fans at Wrigley Field.
Analysis: Dempster was charged with five hits, one walk and four runs Friday. It was his second worst performance of the season. He allowed five runs in 1/3 of an inning, to ironically the Mets, on May 17. Dempster just isn't having a fun time with the Boys from Shea this year. Outside of those two blemishes, Dempster has been a decent closer for the Cubs. Kerry Wood did come off the DL Friday, but is not expected to challenge Dempster for the closer's role at this time. Dempster remains a viable source for saves in all Fantasy leagues.
News: Ryan Dempster finished the game Tuesday for his 17th save in 19 chances.
Analysis: Dempster is a sleeper for saves in deeper leagues. The first-half talk of him becoming a starter are over and he figures to remain the Cubs' stopper for as long as he's healthy and effective.
News: Cubs RP Ryan Dempster made his first appearance since coming off the DL Friday during Saturday's game against the Diamondbacks. He pitched a scoreless ninth inning in a non-save situation. Dempster, who had not pitched in the majors since June 22, allowed one hit and struck out one.
Analysis: Dempster, who had been on the 15-day DL since June 26 with a left oblique strain, is 16-for-18 in saves this season. He has regained his role as the team's closer from Bob Howry and is once again a viable Fantasy option in all formats.
News: The Chicago Cubs put infielder Daryle Ward on the 15-day disabled list Friday with a torn right calf muscle and activated closer Ryan Dempster. In corresponding moves, the Cubs called up infielder Scott Moore from Triple-A Iowa and optioned right-hander Sean Gallagher to the same team.
Analysis: Dempster, who had been on the 15-day DL since June 26 with a left oblique strain, is 16-for-18 in saves this season with a 3.38 ERA. He had two scoreless rehab stints for Iowa. Carlos Marmol and Bob Howry have filled in during late-game situations during Dempster's absence. Get ready to activate Dempster for the Week 17 scoring period.
News: Ryan Dempster (oblique) made a rehab appearance for Triple-A Iowa on Tuesday, working a perfect inning and striking out a batter.
Analysis: Dempster, who has been on the 15-day disabled list due to a left oblique strain, might be ready to return as soon as Wednesday against the Giants. Keep him reserved in all Fantasy leagues until he can officially return and prove his health.
News: Cubs closer Ryan Dempster is getting closer to returning from the disabled list. Piniella said Dempster threw without soreness on Sunday and he might start a rehab assignment on Tuesday.
Analysis: Dempster is out with a left oblique strain. The Cubs hope he will be able to return by next weekend. When healthy, he is a viable sources for saves in all Fantasy formats.
News:The Sports Xchange reports that Ryan Dempster (strained left oblique) will throw a "moderate" bullpen session on Saturday according to manager Lou Piniella.
Analysis: Dempster will likely take a regular bullpen session on Sunday and if all goes well, he will likely go on a minor league rehab assignment during the week. The Cubs hope he will be able to return by next weekend. When healthy, he is a viable sources for saves in all Fantasy formats.
News: Cubs RP Ryan Dempster said he felt fine after throwing off flat ground Friday to test his strained oblique muscle. Dempster could do some throwing off a modified mound Saturday and a full mound Sunday. If he's better, he could pitch one rehab game before rejoining the team in the middle of next week.
Analysis: Dempster is 1-3 with a 3.38 ERA and 16 saves. When healthy, he is a viable sources for saves in all Fantasy formats. It is probably best to keep Demspter reserved through Fantasy Week 16 (July 16-22) at this time.
News: RHP Ryan Dempster, the Cubs' closer, continues to be bothered by rib cage soreness and won't go to the minors for a one-game rehabilitation assignment early this week as initially planned. Dempster (16 saves) hopes to return for the Cubs' second series after the break July 16-18 against the Giants.
Analysis: Dempster is 1-3 with a 3.38 ERA and 16 saves. When healthy, he is a viable sources for saves in all Fantasy formats.
News:The Sports Xchange reports Cubs RP Ryan Dempster (strained left oblique) tried throwing off the mound on Friday, but 10 pitches in he experienced discomfort. Dempster had originally planned to come off the disabled list on Friday.
Analysis: Dempster is 1-3 with a 3.38 ERA and 16 saves. When healthy, he is a viable sources for saves in all Fantasy formats. It appears as though he will now make a return some time after the All-Star break.
News:The Sports XChange notes: RHP Ryan Dempster (strained left oblique) is eligible to come off the disabled list at Pittsburgh Sunday.
Analysis: The Cubs originally weighed bringing him off the DL after the All-Star break so the closer would be refreshed when he opened the second portion of the season, but if he continues to make progress, the Cubs will consider activating him Sunday. Dempster is 1-3 with a 3.38 ERA and 16 saves. When healthy, he is a viable sources for saves in all Fantasy formats.
News: Cubs RP Ryan Dempster is not slated to pitch until after the All-Star break after being put on the DL Tuesday with a strained oblique muscle. "Take care of it and be strong for the second half," he said.
Analysis: Demspter is 1-3 with a 3.38 ERA and 16 saves. When healthy, he is a viable sources for saves in all Fantasy formats.
News: The Chicago Cubs put closer Ryan Dempster on the 15-day disabled list with a strained left oblique muscle, and transferred Wade Miller to the 60-day disabled list on Tuesday. Dempster's move was retroactive to June 23. The Cubs called up right-hander Billy Petrick from Double-A Tennessee.
Analysis: Demspter is 1-3 with a 3.38 ERA and 16 saves. He is out until likely after the All-Star break. When healthy, he is a viable sources for saves in all Fantasy formats.
News: Closer Ryan Dempster might be headed to the DL with a strained oblique. Dempster missed the last two games and wasn't available Tuesday night. Dempster will throw off the mound on Tuesday to see if he can avoid the DL. "He felt better today, he threw off flat ground. He's better than he was. (Tuesday) probably will throw him off the mound and that will probably be a determining factor in what we do," Cubs manager Lou Piniella said.
Analysis: Dempster should be reserved in all leagues at this point. He would be out until after the All-Star break if he has to hit the DL. Track his news in the coming days.
News: Closer Ryan Dempster was unavailable to pitch Sunday and likely will not be used Monday against the Rockies because of a strained oblique. Manager Lou Piniella said he will use RHP Bob Howry in Dempster's role. Howry pitched a scoreless ninth in Saturday and Sunday's games for his first two saves of the season.
Analysis: Howry won't be a long-term solution at closer at this point, but he could develop into one. Obliques are tricky injuries for a pitcher, so consider Howry in deeper leagues if you need saves in Fantasy Week 13 (June 25-July 1). Dempster should be kept reserved in all formats at this point.
News: Bob Howry got three outs for his second save Sunday. He is getting time in the closer's role with Ryan Dempster nursing a strained oblique.
Analysis: Howry won't be a long-term solution at closer at this point, but he could develop into one. Obliques are tricky injuries for a pitcher, so consider Howry in deeper leagues if you need saves in Fantasy Week 13 (June 25-July 1). Dempster should be kept reserved in all formats at this point.
News: Bob Howry pitched the ninth against the White Sox Saturday for his first save in four chances, with closer Ryan Dempster nursing a strained oblique.
Analysis: Dempster injured himself on the first pitch he threw Friday and won't be available for a few days, manager Lou Piniella said. Consider reserving Dempster for the upcoming scoring period and possibly picking up Howry in NL-only formats as a replacement.
News: Ryan Dempster notched his 16th save of the season by striking out the side in the ninth inning of Tuesday's 5-4 victory over Texas. The veteran has been seeing an increase in his velocity to the mid- and upper-90 mph range, according to The Sports Xchange.
Analysis: Dempster still has the occassional meltdown on the mound, but is still worth using in all NL-only and larger mixed leagues.
News: Carlos Marmol (2-0) struck out the first four batters he faced Tuesday and five of nine in three perfect innings. Ryan Dempster struck out the side in the ninth for his 16th save in 18 chances, completing five hitless innings by the Cubs' bullpen. "Our starter didn't pitch well, but our bullpen saved us," Cubs manager Lou Piniella said.
Analysis: Marmol is nothing more than a middle reliever for the deepest of leagues that use true middle men. Dempster is a closer useful in deeper leagues, albeit a risky one on a regular basis.
News: Cubs RP Ryan Dempster worked a perfect ninth inning during Friday's win over the Padres for his 15th save in 17 opportunities. It was his fourth save since June 7. He has now also worked four straight scoreless appearances and has allowed just one hit during that span.
Analysis: Dempster still has the occassional meltdown on the mound, but is still worth using in all NL-only and larger mixed leagues.
News: Cubs RP Ryan Dempster pitched a perfect ninth inning during Wednesday's 3-2 win over the Mariners for his 14th save in 16 chances. Dempster, who struck out win, now has three saves since June 7.
Analysis: Dempster still has the occassional meltdown on the mound, but is still worth using in all NL-only and larger mixed leagues.
News: Ryan Dempster, who blew a save chance Sunday night when he gave up three runs in the eighth inning in Atlanta, pitched the ninth inning on Monday against the Astros for his 13th save in 15 opportunities.
Analysis: Despite Sunday's implosion, Dempster remains a must-start in all NL-only Fantasy leagues and some deeper mixed formats.
News: The Atlanta Braves scored three runs in the eighth inning on Sunday off of Ryan Dempster, who had pitched nine straight scoreless innings. He also had a critical wild pitch which led to the runs. "I don't have a clue," Dempster said when asked about the wild pitch. "My foot just gave out, and I slipped. That's not where we lost the game. We lost it earlier."
Analysis: Despite this recent implosion, Dempster has been relatively reliable. He remains a must-start in all NL-only leagues and most mixed formats heading into Fantasy Week 11 (June 11-17).
News: Cubs RP Ryan Dempster came on during Thursday's game against the Braves to preserve a 2-1 win and pick up his 12th save. Dempster induced three ground balls and ended the game in a quick fashion. It was his first save since May 26.
Analysis: Dempster will continue to close games out for the Cubs despite recent rumblings that he was headed back to the starting rotation. He remains a must-start in all NL-only Fantasy leagues and most mixed formats as a No. 2 or 3 fireman.
News: Cubs RP Ryan Dempster got his 11th save in 12 chances after pitching a scoreless ninth inning during Saturday's 5-4 win over the Dodgers. Dempster allowed singles to Andre Ethier and Mike Lieberthal before getting pinch-hitter Olmedo Saenz to ground into a game-ending double play. Dempster picked up his 10th save Thursday against the Padres.
Analysis: Dempster will continue to close games out for the Cubs despite recent rumblings that he was headed back to the starting rotation. He remains a must-start in all NL-only Fantasy leagues and most mixed formats as a No. 2 or 3 fireman.
News: Bob Howry (2-3) pitched a perfect eighth for the win on Thursday at San Diego. Ryan Dempster got his 10th save in 11 chances by working a perfect ninth.
Analysis: Dempster will continue to close games out for the Cubs despite recent rumblings that he was headed back to the starting rotation. He remains a must-start in all NL-only Fantasy leagues and most mixed formats as a No. 2 or 3 fireman.
News: The Chicago Tribune reports that current Cubs closer Ryan Dempster told reporters that he was told by manager Lou Pinella he'd be moving into the Cubs' starting rotation and serving as a mentor to youngster Angel Guzman, who would become the Cubs' closer in time. Pinella then told him that such a move was on hold, but that doesn't mean it won't happen in the near future.
Analysis: Dempster was a disaster as a starter with the Cubs before turning into their closer. He's done a decent job this year but has a 4.43 ERA with just nine saves, botching just one save opportunity. Expect him to continue closing out games for the Cubbies. Guzman has the stuff to be a strong closer but is at best an NL-only league stashee. He's worth a flier in those formats.
News: Ryan Dempster was all ready to make the switch to the rotation, telling reporters on Sunday he was excited about the change. But 30 minutes later after meeting with manager Lou Piniella, Dempster returned to his locker and said he was remaining in the bullpen. Piniella had promised some new alignments when the team opens a series in San Diego on Tuesday.
Analysis: Dempster is 9-for-10 in save chances despite a meltdown Thursday against the Mets. Dempster was a starter before becoming a closer in 2005, so he might make the move into the rotation at some point. However, that doesn't seem to be the case at this time. Plan on Dempster being a relief pitcher for Fantasy Week 8 (May 21-27), but keep an eye on the rumblings in Chicago.
News: The Cubs are considering making changes to their pitching staff and Ryan Dempster's name came up as a possible candidate to enter the team's rotation. "We've talked about that situation," Cubs manager Lou Piniella told MLB.com on Sunday. "I'm comfortable with him (as the closer). We've talked about him starting. That's all I have to say about it."
Analysis: Dempster is 9-for-10 in save chances despite a meltdown Thursday against the Mets. Dempster was a starter before becoming a closer in 2005, so he could make the move into the rotation. However, that doesn't seem to be the case at this time. Plan on Dempster being a relief pitcher for Fantasy Week 8 (May 21-27), but keep an eye on the rumblings in Chicago.
News: Ryan Dempster, who took the loss on Thursday in a massive meltdown against the Mets, pitched the ninth for his ninth save in 10 chances Friday vs. the White Sox. He didn't allow a baserunner and struck out two in the outing.
Analysis: Despite Thursday's meltdown, Dempster has actually been a very useful Fantasy closer in leagues that reward saves. View him as a No. 2 closer at this time.
News: Cubs closer Ryan Dempster allowed five earned runs in the bottom of the ninth Thursday afternoon at the Mets to blow a four-run lead and earned his second loss of the season. He recorded just one out, allowing three hits and two walks as the Mets chipped away at the lead. Scott Eyre ultimately allowed the tying and winning runs.
Analysis: Ouch. It wasn't even a save situation. Despite the loss, Dempster has actually been a very useful Fantasy closer in leagues that reward saves. View him as a No. 2 closer at this time, but beware the wrath of manager Lou Piniella. He won't take too many outings like this one.
News: Ryan Dempster pitched the ninth inning Sunday at Philadelphia for his eighth save in nine chances, completing a four-hitter.
Analysis: Dempster has been a solid closer for deeper leagues and should be considered a solid No. 2 closer in leagues that reward saves.
News: Cubs closer Ryan Dempster couldn't hold the lead Tuesday and blew his first save of the season in eight chances. He walked pinch-hitter Nate McLouth with one out and gave up a single to Ryan Doumit, who was also pinch hitting. Jack Wilson followed with a sacrifice fly to right to tie it 3-3. "We had a plethora of wasted opportunities. That eighth inning I thought we put the game away," manager Lou Piniella said.
Analysis: Dempster has been a solid closer for deeper leagues and is in no danger of losing his closer's role at this point. McLouth, Doumit and Wilson are nothing more than deeper NL-only options at this point -- although Doumit has the potential to be a future star.
News: Ryan Dempster (1-1) pitched a scoreless inning for the win, as the surging Chicago Cubs beat the Washington Nationals 4-3 on Sunday in 10 innings for their fifth straight victory.
Analysis: Dempster remains a solid No. 2 Fantasy closer in all NL-only leagues and most mixed formats.
News: Cubs RP Ryan Dempster pitched a perfect ninth inning during Saturday's 5-2 win over the Nationals for his seventh save in as many chances. Dempster now has three saves since Tuesday.
Analysis: So far, so good for Dempster. He is pitching with real focus and determination this season. The Cubs have been on a recent win streak and Dempster has been able to pick up a handful of saves. He remains a solid No. 2 closer in mixed leagues formats.
News: Ryan Dempster got the last five outs at St. Louis Friday for his fourth save in four chances and first since April 7. He escaped a bases-loaded, one-out jam in the eighth, striking out Preston Wilson and getting Adam Kennedy on a groundout.
Analysis: Dempster survived another scare in the ninth when pinch-hitter Scott Spiezio's drive down the right-field line with a runner on hooked just foul. "It was more fair than I thought it was going to be," Dempster said. "Right away I thought he pulled it foul and I was watching it and I'm like, 'You've got to keep bending here or otherwise it's going to go around the pole.'" Piniella extended Dempster because he had three days rest and because setup man Bobby Howry tweaked his back moving his barbecue grill off his patio. Dempster should be considered a No. 2 or 3 Fantasy closer in mixed formats.
News: Albert Pujols hit a three-run homer in the 10th inning, Scott Rolen had a career-best five hits and the St. Louis Cardinals beat the Chicago Cubs 12-9 Sunday after blowing a two-run lead in the ninth. Preston Wilson singled to start the 10th against Ryan Dempster (0-1). One out later, David Eckstein singled off Aramis Ramirez's glove at third. Pujols then a drove a long homer to center field, his fifth of the season. Dempster finished out the inning, but allowed three hits and three runs. He also had three strikeouts.
Analysis: Dempster had not allowed an earned run in his previous eight innings before Sunday's meltdown. He is capable of being a Fantasy productive closer, but sometimes he can be a little erratic. Dempster should be considered a No. 2 or 3 Fantasy closer in mixed formats.
News: Ryan Dempster earned his third save with a perfect ninth inning in Tuesday's game at Atlanta. He also struck out a batter while keeping his ERA perfect at 0.00.
Analysis: Dempster has worked nine innings in eight appearances this season, allowing just one hit and two walks along with 10 strikeouts. Dempster should be considered a No. 2 or 3 Fantasy closer in mixed formats.
News: Cubs CL Ryan Dempster got some work in Saturday during a 7-0 win over the Reds. He entered the game in the ninth inning during a non-save opportunity. He allowed just one hit and struck out two.
Analysis: Dempster picked up two saves in his first two appearances this season, but has come in during non-save chances his last two outings. Still, he has not allowed a run in four innings. That is good news for a pitcher who can be very erratic at times. Continue to view Dempster as a No. 2 or No. 3 Fantasy closer in deeper mixed leagues.
News: Ryan Dempster pitched the ninth at Milwaukee for his second save Saturday.
Analysis: Dempster had some problems last season, but all is well so far -- keep him active as a No. 2 or 3 closer in all leagues.
News: Cubs RHP Ryan Dempster notched his first save since Aug. 14 on Wednesday night, as he broke a string of four consecutive blown saves at the end of the 2006 season.
Analysis: Manager Lou Piniella said that he traditionally lets his closers battle through slumps, so Dempster will have a longer leash that originally speculated if he struggles. For now, consider him a No. 2 closer in most Fantasy formats.
News: According to MLB.com, Cubs CL Ryan Dempster notched his 60th save on Wednesday against the Reds and now moved into a tie for fourth on the all-time saves list for the Cubs. Dempster is now tied with Phil Regan. Lee Smith is the all-time team leader with 180 saves, followed by Bruce Sutter with 133 and Randy Myers with 112.
Analysis: Dempster will need to be on his game this year as the Cubs might replace him at closer if he struggles. For now, consider him a No. 2 closer in most Fantasy formats.
News: Cubs CL Ryan Dempster pitched the ninth inning Wednesday against the Reds for his first save, completing a three-hitter in a 4-1 win. He had a walk and a strikeout in the game.
Analysis: Dempster will need to be on his game this year as the Cubs might replace him at closer if he struggles. For now, consider him a No. 2 closer in most Fantasy formats.
News: Cubs CL Ryan Dempster posted a 2.70 ERA in 10 innings of exhibition work this spring. Dempster, who usually gets in trouble with his control, walked three and struck out 11 this spring.
Analysis: Dempster will need to be on his game this year as the Cubs might replace him at closer if he struggles. For now, consider him a No. 2 closer in most Fantasy formats.
News: Chicago Cubs closer Ryan Dempster gave up three hits and two runs for a blown save in an inning of work in Tuesday's spring game against the Royals. He was able to post a pair of strikeouts in the shaky outing.
Analysis: Dempster cannot afford too many of these type performances during the regular season, as it is widely believed that Kerry Wood will moved into the closer's role if he pitches well and can stay healthy.
News: Ryan Dempster (shoulder) returned to the mound for the first time in a week, pitching an inning Tuesday in the Chicago Cubs' 4-2 loss to the Colorado Rockies. Dempster had been bothered by shoulder spasms, which he described as a knot in the back of his right shoulder after his March 13 appearance against Arizona. "I definitely felt good. The ball was coming out good," Dempster said. "We could start opening (Tuesday), (Wednesday), and I would be ready."
Analysis: Dempster, who had 24 saves last season, gave up one hit and walked one. He has allowed one run and four hits in five spring training appearances. Kerry Wood is peeking over his shoulder. If Dempster struggles at any point during the season and Wood is thriving, don't be surprised if the Cubs place Wood in the closer's role. For now, Dempster is considered a low-end top 25 Fantasy closer.
News: Cubs RHP Ryan Dempster, their closer, is scheduled to pitch one inning Tuesday in Tucson against the Colorado Rockies. Dempster has not pitched since March 13 because of spasms near his right shoulder blade. Dempster described the injury as a "knot" in the muscle.
Analysis: Dempster is once again the Cubs closer this season, but this year he has Kerry Wood peeking over his shoulder. If Dempster struggles at any point during the season and Wood is thriving, don't be surprised if the Cubs place Wood in the closer's role. For now, Dempster is considered a low-end top 25 Fantasy closer.
News: Cubs CL Ryan Dempster took to the mound for the first time during spring training on Saturday against the A's. He gave up no hits, one walk and struck out one in one inning of work.
Analysis: Dempster is once again the Cubs closer this season, but this year he has Kerry Wood peeking over his shoulder. If Dempster struggles at any point during the season and Wood is thriving, don't be surprised if the Cubs place Wood in the closer's role. For now, Dempster is considered a low-end top 25 Fantasy closer.
News: Cubs manager Lou Pinella told MLB.com that closer Ryan Dempster will enter the season with the job and thinks that he's ready to attack. "I would venture to say that the pressure is not the problem," Piniella said. "The execution has been the problem. How he and other pitchers execute here in the spring as far as throwing strikes and command, that's the important consideration. I don't think pressure gets to a kid like Dempster. When you start talking about pressure in sports, when do you have pressure? It's when you don't have confidence in yourself."
Analysis: Expect an improved ERA from Dempster, who held opponents to a low OPS last year. He's a must-own RP in NL-only leagues and a No. 2 or 3 closer in mixed play. Remember, the Cubs bettered their lineup this year, which will only make them better and give Dempster more chances for saves.
News: Manager Dusty Baker talked Monday to struggling closer Ryan Dempster about not using his slider as much. Dempster then pitched a scoreless ninth in a non-save situation.
Analysis: Bobby Howry has been considered the Cubs fill-in closer for the struggling Dempster, who should be considered nothing more than a middle reliever for NL-only leagues down the stretch.
News: Cubs manager Dusty Baker said he would understand if Ryan Dempster was upset about not closing Thursday's 6-5 victory over the Los Angeles Dodgers. Dempster warmed up in the eighth inning, but Bob Howry pitched the ninth for his fifth save. "(Dempster has) been having a little tough luck lately," Baker said. "He's supposed to be upset. I don't blame him for being upset. Sometimes, you have to go a different direction at that point in time. To me, it's a non-story."
Analysis: Dempster had two straight scoreless appearances after allowing at least a run in his previous seven outings. But he has two blown saves and three losses in his last nine games. Howry might get a few save chances in the final few weeks of the season, as it appears the closer situation will be determined daily. Dempster and Howry are only worth using in larger NL-only Fantasy leagues at this point.
News: Bob Howry tossed a perfect ninth inning in Thursday's game against the Dodgers for his fifth save of the season. Manager Dusty Baker went with Howry instead of regular closer Ryan Dempster, who appears to be out of favor.
Analysis: Howry might get a few save chances in the final few weeks of the season, as it appears the closer situation will be determined daily. Dempster and Howry are only worth using in larger NL-only Fantasy leagues at this point.
News: Ryan Dempster blew his sixth save of the season on Saturday vs. St. Louis.
Analysis: Despite the blown save, Dempster is still a useful closer in Rotisserie formats.
News: Ryan Dempster worked a scoreless ninth inning in Monday's game at Houston, allowing a walk, as he picked up his 12th consecutive save and 24th in 29 chances.
Analysis: Dempster has re-emerged as a must-start in all mixed Fantasy leagues, especially Roto formats.
News: Ryan Dempster pitched the ninth to convert his 11th straight save opportunity and his 23rd in 28 chances overall on Sunday at Colorado.
Analysis: He has returned to must-start status in mixed Rotisserie leagues.
News: Ryan Dempster saved his 22nd game in 27 chances on Tuesday at Milwaukee.
Analysis: Dempster has converted 10 consecutive save chances. He has returned to must-start status in mixed Rotisserie leagues.
News: RHP Ryan Dempster, who had some problems with wildness and blown saves in May and June, has converted nine consecutive save opportunities since July 5.
Analysis: Dempster has returned to must-start status in mixed Rotisserie leagues.
News: Ryan Dempster pitched a perfect ninth inning for his 21st save on Saturday against the Pirates.
Analysis: There are better Fantasy closers out there, but Dempster is still a viable option if you are desperate for a source for saves, or play in an NL-only league where closers are tough to come by.
News: For the second straight game, Ryan Dempster picked up a save against the St. Louis Cadinals -- his 20th of the season. He allowed a run off two hits and two walks, but hung on in the end.
Analysis: There are better Fantasy closers out there, but Dempster is still a viable option if you are desperate for a source for saves, or play in an NL-only league where closers are tough to come by.
News: Ryan Dempster threw a perfect ninth to earn his 19th save in 24 opportunities Saturday vs. St. Louis.
Analysis: There are better Fantasy closers out there, but Dempster is still a viable option if you are desperate for a source for saves, or play in an NL-only league where closers are tough to come by.
News: Ryan Dempster pitched a perfect ninth for his 17th save in 22 chances on Monday in New York.
Analysis: There are better Fantasy closers out there, but Dempster is still a viable option if you are desperate for a source for saves, or play in an NL-only league where closers are tough to come by.
News: Ryan Dempster pitched the ninth for his 16th save on Thursday against Houston.
Analysis: There are better Fantasy closers out there, but Dempster is still a viable option if you are desperate for a source for saves, or play in an NL-only league where closers are tough to come by.
News: Ryan Dempster pitched a scoreless ninth inning against Houston Tuesday for his 15th save in 20 opportunities.
Analysis: Dempster hasn't allowed an earned run in four appearances and he has only allowed one baserunner in that span, so consider starting him in all formats again.
News: Ryan Dempster working a perfect ninth for his 14th save in 19 opportunities on Saturday against the Brewers.
Analysis: There are better Fantasy closers out there, but Dempster is still a viable option if you are desperate for a source for saves, or play in an NL-only league where closers are tough to come by.
News: Ryan Dempster pitched a scoreless ninth to earn his 13th save on Wednesday at Houston. Dempster worked out of a one-out jam in the ninth, getting Chris Burke to pop out with the tying run on third and Morgan Ensberg to ground out.
Analysis: There are better Fantasy closers out there, but Dempster is still a viable option if you are desperate for a source for saves, or play in an NL-only league where closers are tough to come by.
News: Ryan Dempster will remain the closer for now. Dempster blew his fifth save in 17 opportunities Saturday, when A.J. Pierzynski hit a three-run homer with two out in the ninth to lift the White Sox over the Cubs 8-6. "The other guys are in the roles they're supposed to be in," manager Dusty Baker said. "(Scott) Eyre and (Bob) Howry are in the setup role; that's why we got them."
Analysis: There are better Fantasy closers out there, but Dempster is still a viable option if you are desperate for a source for saves, or play in an NL-only league where closers are tough to come by.
News: A.J. Pierzynski's three-run homer off closer Ryan Dempster capped a two-out rally in the ninth and lifted the Chicago White Sox over the Chicago Cubs 8-6 Saturday. The Cubs led 6-5 when Ross Gload singled on a slow roller to short with two out and Jermaine Dye walked. That brought up Pierzynski, who knocked a 1-1 pitch out to right for his fifth homer, and the White Sox won for the 13th time in 15 games. The game was delayed for about five minutes after Pierzynski's homer when agitated Cubs fans pelted the field with debris. The grounds crew at Wrigley Field cleaned up the cups, plastic bottles and other items before the game resumed. The blown save was the fifth in 17 chances for Dempster (1-5), and the Cubs have lost eight of nine.
Analysis: There are better Fantasy closers out there, but Dempster is still a viable option if you are desperate for a source for saves, or play in an NL-only league where closers are tough to come by.
News: Ryan Dempster, who blew the save Tuesday night when he and Cedeno made errors, got one this time -- his 12th in 16 chances -- by pitching a scoreless ninth on Wednesday against Milwaukee. A frustrated Dusty Baker said he was thinking of using different closers based on matchups after Tuesday's night's 8-5 loss, in which Dempster gave up four runs in the ninth and blew his fourth save in eight opportunities. But on Wednesday, Baker said he would stick with Dempster.
Analysis: There are better Fantasy closers out there, but Dempster is still a viable option if you are desperate for a source for saves, or play in an NL-only league where closers are tough to come by.
News: Ryan Dempster allowed four earned runs, four hits and two walks in just one inning of work in a non-save situation in Cleveland on Monday night.
Analysis: Fantasy owners hate to see their closer come into a game when it is not a save situation, as the pitcher does not seem to come into the game with the same intensity and then their ERA suffers. It happens time and time again.
News: Cubs closer Ryan Dempster, who threw 35 pitches during a wild ninth-inning save on Friday night, had a few more tense moments on Saturday against the Reds. He gave up an RBI single to Brandon Phillips before retiring Griffey and Rich Aurilia to end it, getting his 11th save in 14 chances.
Analysis: There are better Fantasy closers out there, but Dempster is still a viable option if you are desperate for a source for saves.
News: Struggling closer Ryan Dempster loaded the bases in the ninth with no outs, then walked Ryan Freel to force in a run. He retired the next three batters for his 10th save in 13 chances. "Early on, I wasn't fully committed. I don't know why," Dempster said. "I just wasn't there. It took me walking in a run to finally calm down and get it done. It was definitely exciting. My heart's still going."
Analysis: Dempster had blown three of his previous five save chances. There are better Fantasy closers out there, but Dempster is still a viable option if you are desperate for a source for saves.
News: Ryan Demspter got four outs Monday vs. Cincinnati, striking out three batters for his ninth save of the season. He allowed just one hit in the outing.
Analysis: Dempster bounced back from a blown save in his last outing. He looked a lot more secure than he's looked in his last few outings. There are better Fantasy closers out there, but Dempster is a viable option if you are desperate for a source for saves.
News: The Cubs entrusted a 5-3 lead in the ninth inning Friday vs. Atlanta to closer Ryan Dempster and Atlanta loaded the bases with no outs on singles by Pete Orr and pinch-hitter Brayan Pena and a walk to Marcus Giles. Edgar Renteria drew a walk that pulled the Braves within a run and Dempster struck out Chipper Jones. Andruw Jones followed with a sacrifice fly to right. Neifi Perez dropped Jacque Jones' throw, allowing Marcus Giles to score from second, and made a wild throw home in haste.
Analysis: Dempster suffered some tough luck in the blown save, but it was his own misfires that got him into the jam. The Cubs are in a total tailspin at this time and Dempster should be considered a less than desirable option in leagues that require starting relievers.
News: Mike Jacobs hit a two-run single off Ryan Dempster with two outs in the ninth inning Tuesday night, giving the Florida Marlins a 5-4 victory over the struggling Chicago Cubs and denying Kerry Wood his first win in 10 months. Dempster (0-2) entered in the ninth to protect a one-run lead, but Florida loaded the bases with one out. After Josh Willingham grounded into a force play at the plate, Jacobs hit a liner to left-center that short-hopped the fence. It was Dempster's second blown save in 10 chances.
Analysis: He should bounce back and remains a nice option for saves in all leagues.
News: Ryan Dempster blew his first save of the season in the ninth inning, and the surging San Diego Padres rallied for their 13th victory in 14 games, beating the slumping Chicago Cubs 4-3 on Saturday.
Analysis: The blown save was the first in eight opportunities for Dempster (0-1). Don't be scared off, he still has a respectable 3.00 ERA and seven saves. Continue starting him in all formats.
News: RHP Ryan Dempster gave up his third run of the season Monday night against San Diego, but it was in a non-save situation. He had not pitched since the previous Monday.
Analysis: Dempster remains a reliable closing option in all leagues.
News: Ryan Dempster worked a perfect ninth inning for his sixth save of the season on Tuesday against the Marlins, his second in as many nights against his former team.
Analysis: Dempster improved on his club record with 25 straight save conversions. He is a top 15 closer in all Fantasy formats.
News: Ryan Dempster worked a perfect ninth inning in Monday's game at Florida to pick up his fifth save of the season. He also struck out one batter against his former team.
Analysis: Dempster improved on his club record with 24 straight save conversions. He is a top 15 closer in all Fantasy formats.
News: Ryan Dempster set a club record with his 23rd consecutive save to lead the Chicago Cubs to a 5-4 victory over the Los Angeles Dodgers on Wednesday night.
Analysis: Dempster is obviously a top 15 closer option in Fantasy play.
News: Ryan Dempster pitched the ninth on Monday vs. the Dodgers for his third save of the season, tying Joe Borowski's team record of 22 straight saves.
Analysis: Dempster is a solid closer option in any Fantasy league. Keep him active.
News: Ryan Dempster worked a scoreless ninth inning on Wednesday against the Reds, walking one and striking out a batter, to pick up his second save of the season.
Analysis: Dempster has worked five scoreless innings in his five appearances so far this season. He has now successfully converted 21 straight save chances.
News: Ryan Dempster pitched the ninth against the Cardinals Saturday for his first save of the season.
Analysis: Dempster came on to pitch in the win Friday also, but it wasn't a save situation. He came on in the second half last season and he's worth starting in all Fantasy formats.
News: Ryan Demspster pitched a perfect ninth inning during Friday's win vs. St. Louis. He struck out a batter, but did not receive a save because it was not a save situation.
Analysis: Dempster is a solid closer option in any Fantasy league. Keep him active. The Cubs will eventually give him ample opportunities.
News: Closer Ryan Dempster ended last season by converting his last 19 save opportunities. If he converts his next one, he will match Randy Myers for the second-longest streak in Cubs history over more than one season. Joe Borowski holds the record with 22 consecutive saves in 2003-04.
Analysis: Dempster is a solid closer option in any Fantasy league. Keep him active. The Cubs will eventually give him ample opportunities.
News: Cubs closer Ryan Dempster (4.15 ERA), pitching for the second time since March 14, completed a scoreless eighth inning and picked up the victory.
Analysis: Dempster is worth owning as a No. 2 or 3 closer in most mixed leagues. The Cubs will likely stick with him all season as their gamestopper because of the contract they signed him to this winter.
News: Chicago closer Ryan Dempster, pitching for the first time since March 14, earned the win with a scoreless sixth against the Padres Wednesday.
Analysis: Dempster's spring ERA drops to 4.50. He's worth owning as a No. 2 or 3 closer in most mixed leagues. The Cubs will likely stick with him all season as their gamestopper because of the contract they signed him to this winter.
News: RHP Ryan Dempster was scheduled to pitch Tuesday against Milwaukee, but the game was suspended by rain after six innings. Dempster had gone a week without Cactus League action, getting his work during simulated innings. The Cubs say there are no health problems with Dempster, and Dempster said it was better to build arm strength in controlled settings.
Analysis: In CBS SportsLine.com's latest NL-only experts Head-to-Head draft, Dempster was selected in the seventh round (65th overall). Consider him a solid source of saves in 2006, especially with the team expecting to be a contender.
News: Ryan Dempster is out to prove that 2005 was not a fluke. The longtime starter went into the bullpen last May and was impressive, saving 33 games out of 35 attempts. Cubs management likes Dempster's makeup and feels he can continue to enjoy success as a closer.
Analysis: In CBS SportsLine.com's NL-only experts 5x5 Rotisserie draft, Dempster was selected in the seventh round (79th overall). Consider him a solid source of saves in 2006, especially with the team expecting to be a contender.
News: In CBS SportsLine.com's NL-only experts 5x5 Rotisserie draft, Cubs RP Ryan Dempster was selected in the seventh round (79th overall).
Analysis: The Cubs gave Dempster an awful lot of money for his brief, but dominant, time as the Cubs' closer. He will now enter spring with a locked-down role as the Cubs' go-to man. Consider him a solid source of saves in 2006, especially with the team expecting to be a contender.
News: The Cubs signed RHP Ryan Dempster to a three-year contract extension through the 2008 season.
Analysis: The Cubs gave Dempster an awful lot of money for his brief, but dominant, time as the Cubs' closer. He will now enter spring with a locked-down role as the Cubs' go-to man. Consider him a solid source of saves in 2006, especially with the team expecting to be a contender.
News: Ryan Dempster pitched a scoreless ninth Sunday, extending his streak to 19 1/3 scoreless innings.
Analysis: Dempster has been a great sleeper in the second half. Keep him active in the season's final week.
News: Ryan Dempster has converted his past 12 save opportunities.
Analysis: Dempster has been an outstanding sleeper for saves. He is a solid starter at the closer position in any Fantasy league right now.
News: Ryan Dempster earned his 13th save in 14 chances at Florida Friday, finishing Chicago's first victory since June 29.
Analysis: Dempster should be active in all Fantasy leagues.
News: Ryan Dempster earned his sixth save of the season in Tuesday's 2-1 win over the L.A. Dodgers.
Analysis: Dempster, who threw a scoreless ninth inning, lowered his ERA to 4.95.
News: Ryan Dempster worked a perfect ninth inning in Monday's game against Houston to pick up his third save of the season.
Analysis: So far, so good despite the presence of Joe Borowski in the Cubs' bullpen. Dempster is still the man for saves on the north side right now.
News: Ryan Dempster tossed a perfect ninth inning in Tuesday's game at Pittsburgh to earn his first save of the season.
Analysis: Dempster was making his first appearance since May 11 when he was hit by a line drive.
News: Ryan Dempster, hit Wednesday on his right forearm by a line drive, has a bruise but said he isn't in pain. Baker said he hopes to not use Dempster before Sunday. "We're just glad it wasn't broken," Baker said. "I mean, there's always been something - somebody hurt, or whatever."back together," trainer Larry Davis said.
Analysis: The Cubs would likely use LaTroy Hawkins again as their closer if they decide to rest Dempster.
News: Dempster surrendered three hits and one run in the ninth inning Wednesday against the Mets. He earned a blown save and prevented Mark Prior from getting the win.
Analysis: Dempster is definitely throwing harder since returning from Tommy John surgery, but has not had the success he had hoped for. The team is banking on Joe Borowski to reclaim the closers role once he returns from the DL, so Dempster might be re-inserted into the rotation.
News: Ryan Dempster was warming up in the ninth Sunday, a day after he was told he was becoming the new closer. Dempster, 1-3 as a starter, was scheduled to start Monday against the Mets, but the Cubs told him of the switch Saturday. Dempster pitched in the bullpen late last season after returning from elbow surgery. "It's exciting," Dempster said. "I don't know what to say. Just go out there and when they call on me to do the job, try not to let anyone score."
Analysis: Dusty Baker said this move is definite until Joe Borowski returns from a rehab stint in Triple-A Iowa. "Then we'll make a decision," he said. Dempster should be considered a fine closing option in most leagues for Fantasy Week 6, but Borowski could re-assume that role as early as Fantasy Week 7. "Your best plans don't always work and in that situation it became a priority for him to start," GM Jim Hendry said. Dempster said he hopes the move is for good, and the fans cut him slack as he adjusts to the role. "I hope no one judges me on my first week," he said. "Unless I go 7-for-7, then you can judge me."
News: Ryan Dempster will start Wednesday's game at Milwaukee.
Analysis: Dempster might be a decent play in daily Fantasy leagues against Victor Santos and the Brewers.
News: The Chicago Sun-Times reports that Ryan Dempster has moved back to the bullpen and might replace LaTroy Hawkins as the team's closer. Carlos Zambrano will start at Milwaukee on Tuesday with Greg Maddux to follow.
Analysis: Kerry Wood's shoulder injury throws a wrench into the plans as well. They might need Dempster back in the rotation more than in the bullpen. He has expressed he does not want to go back and forth however, because of his previous elbow injury.
News: Ryan Dempster allowed one unearned run and four hits in six innings on Monday against the Padres to take a tough loss. He also struck out seven batters in the solid outing.
Analysis: We are not quite ready to recommend Dempster just yet, but keep an eye on his next two starts before considering him in NL-only leagues.
News: RHP Ryan Dempster made his first start since July 28, 2003, a week before he had surgery to remove a bone chip behind his right elbow and repair a torn ulnar collateral ligament. Dempster signed with the Cubs in January 2004 and saw action in 23 relief games. "First start since 2003, that's a long time," manager Dusty Baker said. "It's a tribute to him, how hard he's worked to get to this point, and also a tribute to modern medicine. Because back in our day, an injury like that, your career was done."
Analysis: Dempster struggled, but the Cubs seem committed to him in their rotation right now. We suggest reserving him in Week 2 in NL-only leagues, if you can, to see if he turns it around.
News: The Arlington Daily Herald reports that Ryan Dempster will start Wednesday's game at Arizona. He worked four innings Friday in a spring training game. He allowed four hits and struck out three. "Ryan's arm strength is there," said pitching coach Larry Rothschild. "His slider is pretty much there. His stuff has come back. His location is not as good as it's going to be."
Analysis: Dempster's Fantasy value is limited to larger mixed leagues or NL-only leagues right now.
News: Ryan Dempster's spring troubles continued, as he allowed five earned runs, six hits and three walks in only 3 2/3 innings in Sunday's spring game against the Padres.
Analysis: Dempster has been knocked around during the spring, posting an 11.20 ERA so far. He is still slated to open in the back-end of the rotation, but his Fantasy appeal continues to drop by the outing.
News: Ryan Dempster allowed six earned runs on eight hits in less than two innings against Kansas City Monday in a spring training game. He retired only four of the 13 batters he faced.
Analysis: Dempster is slotted in the rotation early on as the Cubs' work through some injury issues. At this point, only consider him late in NL-only leagues.
News: The Chicago Sun-Times reports that Ryan Dempster could move into the rotation if Kerry Wood (rotator cuff) and Mark Prior (elbow) are not ready for the regular season. Sergio Mitre will also be in the running.
Analysis: Dempster was also in the running for the closer job, now owned by Joe Borowski apparently. Consider Dempster, coming off of Tommy John surgery from a couple seasons ago, in your NL-only league.
News: Cubs closer candidate Ryan Dempster pitched two perfect innings Saturday, striking out three.
Analysis: Dempster is competiting with Joe Borowski and LaTroy Hawkins for the Cubs' closer job. Reports have Borowski as the front-runner, Hawkins as the fallback option right now, though. Dempster will likely serve as a middle reliever, but track his progress this spring.
News: Joe Borowski is looking sound in camp, so the Cubs will have a three-headed battle for the No. 1 closer's job this spring. Ryan Dempster and Latroy Hawkins are the other contenders.
Analysis: It is too early to call this spring, but Borowski's promising health gives the Cubs a third option. Anyone of those three above options will be a sneaky-good source of saves on Draft Day, so track this position battle closely.
News: The Cubs will likely consider Ryan Dempster during the offseason as a potential closer for 2005, according to the Chicago Sun-Times. They might view him in a shared role, perhaps trading Kyle Farnsworth in exchange for a closer with a bloated contract.
Analysis: LaTroy Hawkins, who has blown nine saves this season, will finish out the season as Chicago's closer, but he'll likely return to a setup role next year. Dempster is an interesting NL-only sleeper in keeper formats.
News: Ryan Dempster (elbow) was activated from the 60-day disabled list on Sunday.
Analysis: Dempster allowed one hit and one walk in two-thirds of an inning on Sunday against the Phillies. He is not worth using in any format unless he is called on as an injury replacement in the rotation.
News: The Chicago Sun-Times reports that Ryan Dempster (elbow) looked good again Sunday with two strong innings for Triple-A Iowa.
Analysis: Dempster will make a couple more starts before joining the Cubs as a setup man in the late innings.
News: Ryan Dempster (back) will miss his next rehab start at Triple-A Iowa, but the Cubs don't consider it a major setback.
Analysis: Dempster is expected to make his return from Tommy John surgery next week, according to the Chicago Sun-Times.
News: Ryan Dempster (elbow surgery) was forced to cut his rehab start short on Tuesday due to tightness in his back.
Analysis: It is unclear if he will miss his next scheduled rehab start, but he might be forced to spend at least one more month in the minors if this is indeed a setback and not a minor injury.
News: Ryan Dempster (Tommy John surgery) allowed three runs on five hits and three walks in 4 1/3 innings of his first rehabilitation start for Triple-A Iowa on Monday.
Analysis: Dempster still hopes to return within a couple weeks, but it's likely he'll spend the second half of the season as a middle reliever for the Cubs. He won't have much, if any, Fantasy value in that role.
News: Ryan Dempster (elbow surgery) allowed two earned runs in 4 1/3 innings for Class A Lansing on Monday. He struck out six batters.
Analysis: Dempster is progressing nicely in his rehabilitation. He has struck out 21 batters and only walked two in 18 1/3 innings for the Lugnuts. He has a 1.96 ERA. He might be ready to move onto Triple-A Iowa shortly.
News: Ryan Dempster (elbow surgery) will throw 60 pitches for Class A Lansing on Thursday. Barring any setbacks, he will make one more start for the Lugnuts before moving onto Triple-A Iowa, according to the Arlington Heights Daily Herald.
Analysis: Dempster is hopeful of returning before the end of June. When he is able to return, he will likely work in middle relief. He has no Fantasy appeal unless injuries decimate the starting staff again and he can secure a job in the rotation.
News: According to the Arlington Heights Daily Herald, Ryan Dempster (Tommy John surgery) is progressing ahead of schedule. In his Monday rehab start for Class A Lansing, he allowed three hits and one run in his three innings of work.
Analysis: Dempster will likely pitch two more games for Class A. He might join Triple-A Iowa after that. No timetable has been set for his return to the Cubs. Dempster will most likely pitch out of the bullpen when he does return.
News: Ryan Dempster (elbow ligament replacement surgery) is scheduled to make a rehabilitation start for Class A Lansing on Wednesday.
Analysis: Dempster could be ready to join the Cubs' bullpen by midseason. He's probably not going to get a look in a starting role until 2005, however, limiting his Fantasy appeal in yearly formats.
News: The Chicago Sun-Sentinel reports that Ryan Demspter (elbow) pitched three innings in a simulated game Monday. He might be able to pitch out of the bullpen as early as June.
Analysis: Dempster has an eye on a rotation spot for next season.
News: The Chicago Sun-Times reports that Ryan Dempster (elbow) threw live batting practice Monday.
Analysis: Dempster is still recovering from Tommy John surgery from last August.
News: Ryan Dempster (elbow surgery) was placed on the 60-day disabled list on Sunday.
Analysis: Dempster might be able to return in June or July. He will likely be used as a reliever.
News: Dempster (elbow surgery) threw off a mound and on flat ground Sunday, according to the Chicago Sun-Times.
Analysis: Dusty Baker said Dempster could be back as early as June or July instead of the original projection of September.
News: The Cubs and Dempster agreed to a one-year contract Wednesday.
Analysis: Dempster had ligament replacement surgery on his elbow Aug. 4, and spent the final two months of last season on the Cincinnati Reds' disabled list. It will probably be July or August before he's ready to pitch in the majors again.
News: The Reds released Ryan Dempster on Tuesday. He was just 3-7 with a 6.54 ERA in 20 games before undergoing Tommy John surgery.
Analysis: Dempster, who is likely to miss most of the 2004 season, might struggle to find another team interested in his services. He won't have any Fantasy value.
News: Ryan Dempster had "Tommy John" surgery on Monday. Originally, he was only to have bone chips removed, but it was determined he had a complete tear of the ulnar collateral ligament in the right elbow.
Analysis: Dempster will likely miss a good chunk of the 2004 season as he continues to recover. The injury explains why a pitcher with his stuff has pitched so poorly this season.
News: The Cincinnati Post notes that Ryan Dempster will have arthroscopic surgery on his elbow to remove a bone chip. Depending on the size of the chip, he might miss the rest of the season.
Analysis: Watch this situation over the next few days.
News: The Reds placed Ryan Dempster on the 15-day disabled list on Thursday due to inflammation in his right elbow.
Analysis: With Dempster on the 15-day DL, the team might elect to plug trade acquisition Brandon Claussen or Aaron Harang into the rotation.
News: The Cincinnati Post reports that Ryan Dempster will start Saturday against Cleveland.
Analysis: Dempster should be reserved unless the matchup is favorable. He's worth considering going up against the Indians.
News: Ryan Dempster allowed one unearned run and four hits in 7 1/3 innings on Thursday at Tampa Bay. He walked two batters and struck out five to improve to 2-4.
Analysis: Despite the solid performance, keep Dempster reserved unless the matchup is favorable.
News: Ryan Dempster (neck) was activated from the 15-day disabled list on Saturday and will start against Toronto.
Analysis: Dempster has been too inconsistent to be used as a Fantasy starter in any format.
News: The Cincinnati Enquirer says Ryan Dempster (neck) is expected to return from the DL to start on Saturday.
Analysis: Dempster is an erratic Fantasy starter, and he is not a recommended Fantasy player in mixed leagues.
News: Ryan Dempster (neck) made his first rehab start for Triple-A Louisville on Tuesday. He allowed one run in 7 2/3 innings.
Analysis: Dempster is an unreliable Fantasy starter when he is healthy.
News: The Cincinnati Enquirer says Ryan Dempster will return to the rotation and start on Friday.
Analysis: Chris Reitsma will be shifted back to the bullpen.
News: Ryan Dempster pitched in relief on Saturday. He walked five batters in 2 1/3 scoreless innings.
Analysis: Dempster's Fantasy value has decreased dramatically from his days as a member of the Florida Marlins. He is not a useful Fantasy pitcher in any format until he can regain his command.
News: Test results indicated the Ryan Dempster has an inflamed nerve in his neck. He will not make his scheduled start on Friday.
Analysis: Chris Reitsma will take his place in the rotation on Friday.
News: The good news for Ryan Dempster is that he allowed only one hit in his outing on Wednesday night. The bad news, he allowed six walks and seven earned runs in only 1 2/3 innings at Colorado. Two walks were with the bases loaded and he was only able to throw 19 strikes in 49 pitches.
Analysis: In six starts, Dempster has walked 28 batters in only 34 innings. He has walked four or more batters in five of his six starts. Dempster has minimal Fantasy value in NL-only leagues.
News: Friday's game between the Montreal Expos and Cincinnati Reds has been postponed due to rain. The two teams will play a day-night doubleheader on Saturday. Zach Day and Ryan Dempster, Friday's scheduled starters, will likely pitch Saturday instead.
Analysis: Reserve all your Reds and Expos if you play in a daily league.
News: Ryan Dempster pitched nine solid innings, allowing one earned run and seven hits on Tuesday at Houston. He walked two batters and struck out three to improve to 1-0. "Action at the end of a pitch gives you chances for double plays and ground balls, and Dempster has that," Boone said.
Analysis: Dempster has shown glimpses of his 2000 form in two starts this season. He won 14 games and had a 3.66 ERA with the Marlins in 2000. In two starts this year, he has allowed only four earned runs in 15 2/3 innings, walked five and striking out five batters. He is worth a roster spot in NL-only leagues, if available.
News: Dempster has bone spurs on his right ankle, according to the Cincinnati Enquirer. The injury will not require surgery, and he is expected to be ready for the start of spring training.
Analysis:
News: The Padres pounded Dempster on Sunday. He tied a career high by allowing 10 runs on 10 hits in four innings. Dempster failed to retire any of the five batters he faced in the fifth, and was knocked out on Kingsale's bases-clearing double. Reserve Dempster if you haven't done so already. He is 6-11 with a 5.90 ERA.
Analysis:
News: Dempster's debut with the Reds resulted in his shortest outing of the season. Dempster allowed six earned runs on six hits, while yielding four walks and striking out four. The poor start can be attributed to nerves perhaps and better results should follow.
Analysis:
News: The Marlins have finalized a deal with Cincinnati, trading Dempster to the Reds for outfielder Juan Encarnacion, Wilton Guerrero and a minor-league player. Dempster's value won't change much in Cincinnati.
Analysis:
News: Dempster and teammate Cliff Floyd might be headed to Montreal in exchange for Graeme Lloyd, Masato Yoshii and prospect Josh Karp. The trade has been agreed upon in principle, but Major League Baseball must approve the deal. Dempster, a native Canadian, would head home to join recently acquired Bartolo Colon, as well as Tony Armas, Jr., Tomo Ohka and Javier Vazquez in a strong rotation.
Analysis:
News: Dempster, who allowed three runs in 6 1/3 innings on Tuesday, earned his first win of the year and the first in a dozen starts dating back to Sept. 2, 2001. "Now you will see the real man. He can relax now," Cliff Floyd told The Miami Herald. Dempster is now 1-3 and still may be headed for a losing year.
Analysis:
News: Dempster returned from a finger injury on Wednesday. He lost his first three decisions, but you can still expect good overall numbers from him the rest of the way.
Analysis:
News: Dempster has been bothered by a swollen right ring finger, so his next start will be pushed back one day to Wednesday at St. Louis. Dempster hurt his finger when he was hit by a batted ball Apr. 19. A.J. Burnett will start for Dempster on four days' rest Tuesday.
Analysis:
News: Dempster has been named Florida's Opening Day starter. A.J. Burnett will follow him in the rotation, with Brad Penny being No. 3. Dempster should give Fantasy leaguers a good amount of wins, but he won't have a stellar ERA or WHIP ratio.
Analysis:
News: Dempster has not been confirmed as Florida's Opening Day starter. Manager Jeff Torborg told the Fort Lauderdale Sun-Sentinel he will wait to decide on his starter for the season opener. There is a chance Brad Penny could get the call over Dempster.
Analysis:
News: Dempster the Marlins' ace, struggled with his control and lasted only 2.2 innings Tuesday, his shortest outing since July 1, 1999. He allowed five hits, five walks and six runs to raise his ERA to 5.17. Monitor his performance in the next few outings. He has struggled with his control all season, walking 33 in 54 innings. A roster move may be in order if Dempster continues to have problems.
Analysis:
News: Dempster suffered a bruised forearm when he was hit by a pitch on Wednesday. He was able to finish the bottom of the inning and the injury is not considered to be serious.
Analysis:
News: Held the Reds to one run in eight innings tonight, his second consecutive strong start Dempster went eight innings, with only six hits, one run, one walk, and seven Ks. He's a good bet for a strong second half.
Analysis:
News: Tossed a one-hit shutout against the Mets today. He had eight strikeouts, 4 walks and threw 114 pitches. Dempster lowered his ERA to 2.39 and is one of the best pitchers in the league.
Analysis:
News: Lowered his ERA to 2.93 by allowing 2 ER in 7.3 IP against San Diego on Monday. Dempster has turned into one of the better pitchers in the league. Try to get him now, before the other owners in your league realize just how good he is.
Analysis:
News: It's been a tale of two seasons for Ryan Dempster, who would love to turn back the clock to April and May. Through the first two and half months of the season, Dempster was 3-2 with a 2.50 ERA, having allowed 11 runs in 39.2 innings. But since, he has been bombed for 29 runs in 22.1 innings over his past five starts and has lasted as long as five innings only twice.
Analysis:
News: Very quietly, 22-year-old righty Ryan Dempster has established himself as a solid major-league pitcher. Dempster has made four quality starts in a row, allowing only four runs in his last 25.2 innings while walking 11 -- seven in one game (June 2 at St. Louis). For the season, he is 3-2 with a 2.50 ERA in seven starts. That's a far cry from last year, when Dempster went 1-5 with a 7.08 ERA in 14 games for the Marlins.
Analysis:
