Gordon Wittenmyer writes a nice piece about Ryan Dempster and his recent off-field ordeal. (I always hate it when writers use the word “ordeal”- sounds too melodramatic, but honestly, I couldn’t find another word this morning!)

Dempster’s wife gave birth to a baby girl in late March, premature and with a rare disorder that doesn’t allow the little girl to swallow correctly.  She is still in the hospital and already had surgery in young life. Dempster has been moving between ball field and hospital, and taxing his body all season.  Honestly, he’s pitching pretty good considering the schedule he has been on.

Even if you don’t like the Cubs (Mike K, this means you!) you might gain a little respect for the guy after reading this piece.