>>Cubs' Dempster Felt "Blindsided" By Trade

(Pittsburgh, PA)  --  Chicago Cubs pitcher Ryan Dempster will not make a decision on where he is traded until just before next week's deadline.  MLB.com reports that Dempster was "blindsided" by Monday's report that he was traded to the Atlanta Braves.  Dempster denied the trade via his Twitter account and told reporters he would rather play for the Los Angeles Dodgers.  The 35-year-old holds 10-and-5 rights in his contract and can veto any proposed deal.  He is 5-and-4 this season and has an MLB-best 2.11 ERA.  The trade deadline is Tuesday, July 31st.  Dempster is scheduled to start this afternoon's series finale at Pittsburgh.

>>Dodgers Acquire Ramirez, Choate From Marlins

(Undated)  --  The Marlins continue to sell prior to next week's non-waiver trade deadline.  FOX Sports reports Miami has dealt infielder Hanley Ramirez and left-handed pitcher Randy Choate to the Los Angeles Dodgers for Nate Eovaldi and minor league prospect Scott McGough.  Ramirez is hitting .246 with 14 homers and 48 RBI this season for the Marlins.  Choate carries a 2.49 ERA with one save and 15 holds in 44 appearances this season.  Eovaldi has made 10 starts this season for L.A., going 1-and-6 with a 4.15 ERA.  On Monday, Miami traded pitcher Anibal Sanchez and infielder Omar Infante to the Tigers for three minor leaguers.