Cubs SP Ryan Dempster continued his fine work in his transition back to the starting rotation this season, going seven strong innings at Washington on Friday. He allowed three runs -- two earned -- on four hits and three walks, striking out five. He did not factor in the decision, however.

Cuns SP Ryan Dempster was lifted for a pinch hitter in the fifth inning Sunday against the Pirates, but thanks to plenty of run support, he didn't need to pitch exert any more energy. Dempster moved to 3-0 as Chicago won 13-5. He allowed three runs, five hits and two walks in five innings. He struck out three and didn't allow a home run. He has won his last two starts despite allowing seven runs in 11 innings.

Dempster improves to 3-0 by beating Pirates

Cubs closer-turned-starter Ryan Dempster (2-0) gave up five hits and four runs in six-plus innings during Tuesday's 9-5 win against the Reds. He left during the seventh when the Reds loaded the bases with no outs but scored only one run, thanks to stellar defensive plays by Mike Fontenot at second and Derrek Lee at first. Dempster did issue five walks and struck out three while allowing a two-run homer to Ken Griffey Jr. in the third inning.

Dempster gets win despite lack of command

Ryan Dempster pitched seven strong innings in his second start of the season. The former closer allowed one hit and only one Pirates baserunner to reach second before exiting in the eight inning. Dempster walked two and struck out five, retiring 20 of the final 21 batters he faced.Demps was the pitcher of record when Kerry Wood took the ball in the bottom of the ninth, but Wood blew his second save giving the Cubs starter a no-decision.

Dempster one-hits Pirates for seven innings

Dempster prevails in return to rotation