Ryan Dempster isn't going to save a rotation that has the 14th-ranked ERA in the National League.
Of course, Dempster to the Atlanta Braves isn't even a done deal yet (via CBS' Jon Heyman):
braves & cubs had agreed on dempster deal. his twitter comment suggests his 10-and-5 veto rights could be in play tho
— Jon Heyman (@JonHeymanCBS) July 23, 2012
It would appear Dempster isn't too excited about heading to the great city of Atlanta—which, by the way, might not be a good sign if he eventually does let the trade go through—but for now, let's pretend like the deal is official.
The 35-year-old would be just what the doctor ordered for the Braves.
Atlanta's team ERA is 4.04, just below league average, but that number has been saved by a solid bullpen. When you only take into account the starters, it drops to 4.34, third-worst in the NL.
Throw in the injury to Brandon Beachy and the inconsistency even from the top-of-the-rotation studs, and the need for a starter was painfully obvious for Fredi Gonzalez's club.
Enter Dempster, who, in his 15th MLB season, is putting together the best year of his career. In 15 starts with the Cubbies, Dempster has compiled a 2.11 ERA, 1.05 WHIP and most importantly, a career-low—by far—walk percentage.
Dempster has turned from a wild, strikeout pitcher to wily, effective veteran.
But just like Christopher Walken needed more cowbell, the Braves would still need more pitching.
Dempster is a serious boost to the rotation, there is no doubt about that, but does he complete the rotation? Probably not.
First of all, Randall Delgado, who had compiled 17 starts this season, albeit inconsistent ones, is likely involved in the proposed trade. So, while Dempster fills the hole created by Delgado's possible departure, depth remains a problem.
Tommy Hanson and Tim Hudson are obvious mainstays in the rotation, even though they, like the rest of the team, have struggled to stay consistent. But after those two and Dempster, what is there?
Mike Minor has been terrible. Jair Jurrjens has been terrible. If Ben Sheets' two magnificent starts turn out to be more of a storybook return from injury then a mirage, that is four very quality starters.
They still need to round out the rotation for the stretch run, however. What the Braves have in place now would be terrific for the thinned-out schedule in the playoffs, but acquiring another veteran starter for cheap would be a smart move.
Dempster would be the trade deadline equivalent of an ice cream sundae for the Braves. Now, all they need to do is add the cherry on top and they will be ready to make a legitimate run at the World Series.
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