It appeared Ryan Dempster was on his way to the Atlanta Braves after being linked to the Dodgers for weeks. While the Braves and Cubs had reached a deal, Dempster has a full no-trade clause due to his 10-and-5 rights*. Dempster had interest in going to Atlanta, but he wanted to see if the front office could arrange a deal with the Dodgers first. They are believed to be his preferred destination should a trade happen.
According to the latest tweet from Jon Morosi, the Dodgers and Cubs are working on a trade once again after negotiations broke off on Monday.
Source: #Cubs have asked #Dodgers for Allen Webster as primary piece in Ryan Dempster talks.
— Jon Morosi (@jonmorosi) July 25, 2012
Webster, 22, is regarded as a top-five prospect in the system. He currently pitches in Double-A and has pitched well while striking out nearly a batter per-inning. Given that Webster has the potential to be a very solid No. 3 or 4 starter one day in the big leagues, it's tough to see L.A. giving him up for two months of Dempster, who will hit free agency in the offseason.
We will continue to monitor the trade rumors out of Los Angeles in the coming days. Dempster is scheduled to start next on Wednesday night.
For more on the Dodgers, check out True Blue LA.