Ryan Dempster
From BR Bullpen
Ryan Scott Dempster
- Bats Right, Throws Right
- Height 6' 1", Weight 201 lb.
- Born May 3, 1977 in Sechelt, BC Canada
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[edit] Biographical Information
Ryan Dempster signed with the Chicago Cubs on January 21, 2004 as a free agent. He replaced LaTroy Hawkins as the Cubs' closer in 2005 and posted the best save percentage of all closers in the National League. After three season as the team's closer, he was moved back to the starting rotation in 2008 and was great in that role as well. In his first season back in the role, he won 17 games with a 2.96 ERA, and in 2009 again posted a winning record while pitching 200 innings with a solid 3.64 ERA.
Dempster's best pitch is his change-up. He has a quirk in his motion which sees him jerk his glove slightly up and down while winding up. This makes it harder for batters to pick up the ball and to distinguish what pitch is coming.
Ryan's young daughter Riley is battling DiGeorge's syndrome (which makes her unable to swallow and digest food). His two-month old daughter (as of June 2009) is still in hospital, unable to leave due to her medical condition. Her prognosis remains "hopeful" and Ryan's 4-year, $52-million contract will help provide the best possible medical care for his child.
[edit] Notable Achievements
- 2-time NL All-Star (2000 & 2008)
- 15 Wins Seasons: 2 (2001 & 2008)
- 200 Innings Pitched Seasons: 5 (2000-2002, 2008 & 2009)
- 200 Strikeouts Seasons: 1 (2000)
- 30 Saves Seasons: 1 (2005)
[edit] Further Reading
- "A Week in the Life of Ryan Dempster", Maclean's Magazine, June 22, 2009, p. 9.
