The Braves and Cubs are reportedly nearing a deal that would send veteran right-handed pitcher Ryan Dempster to Atlanta in exchange for prospects, according to numerous reports on Monday afternoon. The Braves were known to be in the market for a starter to help improve their struggling rotation, and a deal seemed imminent as Jair Jurrjens struggled again on Sunday.
No word on which prospects will be included, but you have to think Frank Wren would be hesitant to include any of his top players. Dempster is a free agent at the end of the 2012 season, and many feel he will return home to Chicago in the offseason.
Dempster, 35, has been great this season. He has a record 5-4, but his ERA of 2.11 leads the National League. His FIP is 3.28 and his BABIP is only .245, so he has been a bit lucky at times. This all being said, there is no denying he is a very reliable starter who would be a huge upgrade over Jurrjens.
No deal has been finalized as of right now, but just about every source in the industry is confirming the news: the Braves appear very close to acquiring Ryan Dempster for the playoff push.
More to come shortly.
For more on the Braves, check out Talking Chop.