Report: Ryan Dempster, Red Sox in 'Serious Discussions' on Contract

Report: Ryan Dempster, Red Sox in ‘Serious Discussions’ on Contract

by Zach Stoloff on Wed, Dec 12, 2012 at 6:19PM

The Red Sox need at least one more starting pitcher, and they may have zeroed in on one specific target.

Earlier this offseason the Red Sox reportedly offered a two-year, $26 million contract to Ryan Dempster, which he flatly rejected. Apparently Boston is willing to budge from that original offer, as according to Fox Sports’ Ken Rosenthal and other reports, Dempster and the Red Sox are involved in “serious discussions” on a deal for 2013 and beyond.

Before a trade deadline deal to the Rangers in 2012, Dempster had pitched his entire career in the National League, then went 7-3 with a 5.09 ERA with Texas down the stretch. Prior to the 173 innings he pitched last year, the 35-year-old had thrown at least 200 innings in four consecutive seasons.

Like other players the Red Sox have signed or checked in on this offseason, Dempster also has a reputation as a good clubhouse presence.