Dempster To Sit Out 2014 Season

Ryan Dempster

Only four months removed from earning his first World Series title, Red Sox pitcher Ryan Dempster has decided to sit out the 2014 campaign due to physical reasons and a desire to spend more time with his children, according to a tweet from Ken Rosenthal.    

"I don't feel like I am capable of performing to the ability and stand that I am accustomed to," Dempster explained in an interview earlier this week. "I feel it's in the best interest of both the club but most importantly myself to step away from playing baseball at this time. The time is right. I'm not saying retirement but I definitely won't be playing this season."

Dempster, 36, struggled in his first year with the Red Sox with an 8-9 record in 29 starts. His 4.57 ERA lead Boston starters, landing him in the bullpen after the team acquired Jake Peavy at the trade deadline.

The Red Sox are expected to place the 16-year veteran on the restricted list, freeing them from his $13.25 million salary in 2014. With this additional money, the Red Sox could possibly re-sign free agent shortstop Stephen Drew, who played an important role in the team's title run a year ago.