Dempster to close for Cubs?

[slomo007]

Ryan Dempster (P) CHC
After throwing five innings (allowing two runs on five hits) in a Tuesday rehab start, Ryan Dempster is expected to make a few relief appearances, according to the Daily Southtown. Coming back from Tommy John surgery, he could be back with the Cubs by the end of the month. It's possible he could end up in the closer's role. "I wouldn't say on Sept. 1 that he couldn't be," Cubs GM Jim Hendry said. "I'm not going to assume that Ryan Dempster is going to grow into the closer's role. But I wouldn't rule it out."

This would be an interesting move.

[Andy1234]

Something to keep in mind.

[Mustangs989]

I don't really like the idea of having Dempster become a closer for the first time in his career in September while the Cubs are in the playoff race. But we'll see how it goes and hopefully he'll prove me wrong.

[Rico The Retard]

when the heck did the cubs get Dempster??? lol i thought he was with the reds

[Pogotheostrich]

I can't see Dusty experimenting with him as a closer unless he is lights out. Closer or not the Cubs could use the help in the bullpen.

[Registered_Guest]

It's a very interesting idea and probably could come to fruition next year (believe they signed him to a 2-year deal).

Next week is a crucial week for the Cubs, if they go lose 5 games in a row I believe they stand pat (don't acquire bullpen help/O.Cabrera) if they win 4 of 5 or 5 of 6, I believe they become buyers at the deadline.

[AcidRock23]

They're probably looking for an extra arm pending the results of Bob Watson's review of Hawkins' and Zambrano's recent antics. If they mess around and appeal it and all that, it could be towards Sept. by the time they are actually sitting perhaps?