[bears9]

ORLANDO, Fla. -- One of the most debated issues concerning the Cubs last season -- keeping Ryan Dempster as the closer -- finally has been resolved.
General manager Jim Hendry confirmed Tuesday that manager Lou Piniella gave Dempster the green light to move from the back of the bullpen to the rotation in time for spring training.
Cubs' General Manager Jim Hendry confirmed Tuesday that manager Lou Piniella gave Ryan Dempster the green light to move from the back of the bullpen to the rotation in time for spring training.


''Lou did speak to Ryan about getting himself ready to pitch in the rotation,'' Hendry said during Day 2 of the general managers meetings.
If Dempster is on the road to starting, who becomes the Cubs' closer?
''It has yet to be determined,'' Hendry said. ''That will be up to Lou in spring training.''
Young right-hander Carlos Marmol and veteran right-hander Bob Howry would be the top two candidates. And if free-agent right-hander Kerry Wood re-signs with the Cubs, he also would be a strong candidate.

Dempster move to rotation leaves opening for closer

[cwstech]

It's about time. Rivera would look good in a Cubs uniform. Or give Marmol the job.

[Gotham Dark Knight]

Dempster has been there and done that...I remember him on my fantasy team. I do not think he is going to fair better as a starter.

[bears9]

Originally Posted by cwstech

It's about time. Rivera would look good in a Cubs uniform. Or give Marmol the job.

Rivera signed with the Yanks, so just give Marmol the jobs

[azrael492]

Marmol should get the job. He was almost unhittable during the season.

I don't think they should waste their time with Dempster. There is a reason he was turned into the closer to begin with. He has some nice pitches, but he can't last that long. He is not made to be a starter.