From the Daily Herald in Chicago comes this brilliant nugget  via Cubs beat writer Bruce Miles in regards to the Cubs Training Camp battle for a fifth starter:

“[Ryan]  Dempster appears to be the favorite because the Cubs promised him a shot to move from closer to starter and because Dempster has worked in the off-season to get himself into top physical shape. “

Does Miles actually site Dempster being in shape as a reason he is going to win a spot in the rotation? Why is this even considered criteria? Dempster is paid millions of dollars to play baseball and we are rewarding him because he spent the summer not being a fat ass? It also warrants asking what the Cubs have previously required of their pitching staff in the off season? Is a daily trip to Wendy’s with a side of lard mandatory?

Congratulations on taking your job seriously, Ryan. You are only 30 years old and a 10 year MLB Veteran. Go Cubs…yikes.