Big Z proved to me last year that he was a money pitcher with back to back shutouts in his last two September starts and a gem of a post season game against the D-backs when Lou pulled him too early. Hopefully he can re-prove that again this season.

In addition, I was very dubious as to how well Ryan Dempster would fare as a starter. I really had my doubts and thought he'd end up battling Jon Lieber for the 4 or 5 spot.

WOW- was I wrong. By my count Dempster has won games EIGHT TIMES after a Cub loss. I didn't even try to figure out games that the team may have won where he got a no decision.

Maybe A-Ram, Geo or Marmol has been more valuable, but this team would be paddle-less in the proverbial creek we've all spent time on, without Ryan Dempster this season.