Cubs a trade fit for Red Sox

Ryan Dempster pitched very well on Friday, shutting out the Boston Red Sox offense over seven innings. It was the third straight start in which he tossed at least seven shutout innings, reducing his ERA to 2.11 in the process. With his typically strong peripherals, Dempster has already tallied 1.9 wins above replacement in 81 innings, putting him on pace for his highest total since posting 5.2 WAR with the 2008 Cubs.

However, given his contractual status and the Chicago Cubs' futility this season, Dempster is likely to find himself finishing the season in another uniform.

While a few contenders such as the New York Yankees and Los Angeles Dodgers have already inquired on his availability, the team Dempster just recently blanked could and should have interest. The Red Sox's interest in Cubs pitching doesn't have to stop there, either, as Matt Garza is conceivably available as well. Both righties would solidify Boston's starting rotation and help the Red Sox get back into the running for a very obtainable American League playoff berth.

To read about which players could complete a Cubs-Red Sox trade, sign up and become an ESPN Insider.

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