|
|
| Coming off a two-hitter, Carlos Zambrano got hit hard in the second game of a double-header at Wrigley Field on Wednesday, allowing four runs in six innings, as the Cubs lost 8-2 to the Pirates. |
Our View: Big Z has had a frustrating year in 2009, failing to win at least 13 games for the first time since 2002. If tonight ends up being his last, which is likely, he finishes the season 9-7 with a 3.77 ERA in 28 starts.
|
|
|
|
| Carlos Zambrano told the Chicago Tribune that he is considering retiring after next season if his play does not improve. "Look, this is the only season I haven't won 16 or 18 or 14 games. If it happens again next season, two seasons in a row, I'll quit. Believe me, I'll quit. I just have to put this behind me," Zambrano said. |
Our View: Big Z has always been known for saying what's on his mind, but we highly doubt he will quit after next season. He may not have the stuff he once did, but he still has plenty of money on the table that he won't collect if he takes his ball and goes home.
|
|
|
|
| Carlos Zambrano only surrendered two hits over nine scoreless innings in Friday's 3-0 win at San Francisco. He issued one walk and fired eight strikeouts. |
Our View: Zambrano improved his record to 9-6, and collected his first complete game and shutout of 2009. The ace hurler allowed two or less earned runs in four of his five starts in September.
|
|
|
|
| Were the Cubs to go ahead and explore trading Carlos Zambrano (who has a full no-trade clause) this offseason, like they reportedly plan to do, the Boston Globe reports he would only accept a trade to the White Sox, Red Sox or Dodgers. |
Our View: The White Sox would likely have the most interest. Big Z's balky contract, three years remaining on a $90 million deal, would be hard to move, however.
|
|
|
|
| Carlos Zambrano did not factor into the decision on Sunday as the Cubs outlasted the Cardnals in 11 innings by a score of 6-3. Zambrano went six innings and allowed two runs on five hits while walking three and striking out six. |
Our View: Big Z was solid in tonight's game, but his 2009 season has still been a major disappointment. He is not the pitcher he once was, but he still has the stuff to be effective when he is on.
|
|
|
|
| According to the Chicago Tribune, Carlos Zambrano has no intention of waiving his no-trade clause. |
Our View: The fans want Big Z run out of town and ownership would love to unload the $53 million left on his contract with an offseason move, but knowing Zambrano's poisonous attitude he'd likely stay just to piss people off. He's clearly no longer the ace he once was, and he's definitely not worth what the Cubs are paying him, but it looks like they're handcuffed. Expect him to remain in Chi-town next year.
|
|
|
|
| Carlos Zambrano allowed five runs on six hits and four walks over five innings on Tuesday. He struck out nine and did not earn a decision in the Cubs 13-7 win over the Brewers. |
Our View: The nine Ks are nice, but Zambrano had a pretty disastrous outing. He earned quality starts in his two previous outings, so he's got something left in the tank, but he's clearly no longer the fantasy stud he once was. Outings like Tuesday's have been frequent this season.
|
|
|
|
| Carlos Zambrano could be traded this offseason, according to the Chicago Tribune. |
Our View: It's no secret that many in the Cubs organization have grown tired of Zambrano's antics, from his caffeine addiction, to his admitted laziness about staying in shape. He has a full no-trade clause, but sounded more than willing to waive it. "Maybe if I go to a different city next year, if I get traded, I can do what I want," he told the paper. Aside from the attitude problems, he has a gargantuan contract (three years remaining on a $90 million deal), though, and could be difficult to move for much value in return. Trades will certainly be explored, but odds are that he will be a Cub on Opening Day 2010.
|
|
|
|
| Carlos Zambrano held the lowly Pirates to just two runs on five hits and three walks over six innings. He fanned eight and earned his eighth victory with an 8-5 Chicago win. |
Our View: Big Z has had a frustrating season marred with injury and bad behavior, but the fire-spitting Chicago ace has put together two quality starts in a row. The win was also his first since July 22nd.
|
|
|
|
| Carlos Zambrano put together a nice start on Friday, but he did not factor into the decision as the Cubs fell to the Mets 6-2. Zambrano went six innings and allowed one run on three hits while walking three and striking out seven. |
Our View: Big Z looked much better tonight than he has in recent starts, but it looks like it might be too little too late for the Cubbies. While tonight's performance is encouraging, fantasy owners should still be careful with Zambrano down the stretch unless the Cubs start to turn things around.
|
|
|
|
| Carlos Zambrano got yanked after just 3.1 innings on Sunday. He allowed four runs (three earned) on 11 hits and was handed his sixth loss of the season as the Cubs fell to the Mets 4-1. |
Our View: The 11-hit performance is the highest total he has allowed all season and he did it in just 3.1 innings. He threw 75 pitches before getting pulled and the Mets clearly saw something in his deliver and jumped all over it.
|
|
|
|
| Carlos Zambrano got hammered in his return to the mound on Tuesday as the Cubs got embarrassed by the Nationals 15-6. Zambrano went 4.1 innings and allowed eight runs on seven hits while walking three and striking out four. |
Our View: Big Z would have been better off staying on the DL tonight, because he was not good. He didn't look like himself, and if the Cubs have any shot of staying in the race, he is going to have to pick up his game and return to his past form.
|
|
|
|
| According to the Chicago Tribune, the Cubs have activated Carlos Zambrano to start Tuesday night's game against the Nationals. |
Our View: Big Z looked good in his rehab start in Peoria, and his back is much improved. He may be coming off injury, but he has an excellent match-up tonight against the Nationals, so get him active.
|
|
|
|
| Carlos Zambrano (back) had a successful rehab outing for Single-A Peoria on Thursday, |
Our View: Big Z mowed down the Single-A hitters he faced to the tune of four hits and five strikeouts in five scoreless innings. As long as he feels good these next few days, he will be reinserted into the Cubs rotation next week.
|
|
|
|
| Carlos Zambrano tells the Chicago Tribune that a possible reason for his lingering back problems this season is that he has been lazy about between-start workouts. |
Our View: Always a wonderful thing to hear from someone getting paid $17.75 million. Big Z says he has been skipping ab workouts all season that doctors believe will relieve stress on the discs in his back. For what it's worth, he's now vowed to start doing them regularly. He also said his current back injury has nothing to do with his over-the-top batting practice routine. He is scheduled to return on August 25 vs. the Nationals.
|
|
|
|
| The Chicago Sun-Times reports that Carlos Zambrano isn't expected to miss more than the minimum 15 days he has to be out. |
Our View: Big Z had an had an "epidural administered in the area of his bulging disk Sunday night," which is expected to do the trick. Stay tuned for updates, but be ready to activate him next week.
|
|
|
|
| The back problems that recently sent Carlos Zambrano to the disabled list could be a result of his "exuberant approach to batting practice before his starts," according to the Chicago Sun-Times. |
Our View: Zambrano is a famously prideful hitter, and the caffeine addicted power righty relishes hitting tape measure shots in batting practice. Only problem is, they make his achy back sing. Look for the Cubs to be forced to rein in their Silver Slugging pitcher at the plate for the rest of the season.
|
|
|
|
| According to the Chicago Tribune, the Cubs have placed ace Carlos Zambrano on the 15-day disabled list with a sore back. |
Our View: The move is retroactive to August 1st, so Big Z will be eligible to return on August 17th. Still no word on the MRI he was scheduled for, but the pain that forced him from his August 1st start after three innings was enough to shelve the big right-hander. No word on if he'll spend the minimum amount of time on the DL, or if he'll need an extended stay.
|
|
|
|
| Carlos Zambrano could be heading for a trip to the DL, according to ESPN Chicago. The team will wait until they get the results of Zambrano's MRI before making a decision. |
Our View: Big Z has been hurting for his last two starts, and Cubs assistant GM Randy Bush told ESPN that it seems very likely that Zambrano will be placed on the DL. This is exactly what the Cubs didn't need right now, but we will know more after the MRI results come back.
|
|
|
|
| Carlos Zambrano was scratched from his start against the Rockies on Friday with a stiff lower back, according to the Associated Press. |
Our View: Zambrano also left his last start after just three innings with a stiff back. The team hasn't said anything yet, but the disabled list sounds like a real possibility, perhaps retroactively.
|
|
|
|
| The Chicago Sun-Times is reporting that Cubs' starter Carlos Zambrano could be used out of the bullpen this week. Zambrano is scheduled to pitch Friday, but the team could use him in relief to help save their depleted bullpen while allowing Zambrano to regain some stamina. |
Our View: Manager Lou Pinella has mentioned this two straight days, but Big Z sounds like he has no interest in pitching out of the pen. This scenario seems unlikely, but regardless of whether or not he pitches out of the pen this week, it looks like he will be good to go Friday for the start.
|
|
|
|
| Carlos Zambrano left Saturday's game at Florida in the third inning after experiencing back stiffness, according to the Chicago Tribune. |
Our View: Jeff Samardzija replaced him on the hill. The severity of Zambrano's ailment is yet to be determined, and the Cubs did not speculate if he may miss any starts.
|
|
|
|
| Carlos Zambrano only issued one earned run on three hits over seven innings in Monday's 5-1 win over the Astros at Wrigley Field. He had four walks and four strikeouts. The battle took 13 innings to decide a victor. |
Our View: Zambrano pitched very well, and it is a shame he was forced to take a no-decision rather than a win. On the positive side, he trimmed his ERA to 3.36, and has not taken a loss over his last four starts.
|
|
|
|
| Carlos Zambrano pitched six relatively rocking innnings on Wednesday, but still mangaged to earn his seventh win of the season, as the Cubs avoided a sweep in Philadelphia, winning 10-5. |
Our View: Big Z isn't the power pitcher he once was, but still has good peripherals (solid ERA, decent WHIP), and usually pitches well in the second half. He's not an elite fantasy pitcher anymore, but a very serviceable one.
|
|
|
|
| Carlos Zambrano picked up another win on Friday as the Cubs defeated the Nationals by a score of 3-1. Zambrano went five innings and allowed one unearned run on four hits while walking four and striking out six. |
Our View: Big Z has put together a few good starts in a row now, although the four walks aren't exactly what owners want to see. This was against the lowly Nats, so don't believe he is back, but the last two starts are encouraging for owners.
|
|
|
|
| Carlos Zambrano picked up his fifth win of the season on Sunday as the Cubs beat the Cardinals in the first game of a doubleheader. Zambrano went six innings and allowed three runs on five hits while walking two and striking out seven. |
Our View: Big Z looked pretty good today, especially considering he hasn't been great this season. Zambrano owners need to hope he can build on this start, because he has been disappointing so far in the first half.
|
|
|
|
| Carlos Zambrano will start the opener of Sunday's doubleheader against the Cardinals, according to MLBblogs.com. Randy Wells will take the hill for the nightcap. |
Our View: Zambrano was initially going to pitch the second game, but skipper Lou Piniella flip-flopped him and Wells for an undisclosed reason. Regardless, Zambrano should be employed in fantasy lineups in his last start before the All-Star break.
|
|
|
|
| Carlos Zambrano was solid but not dominant on Tuesday, a common theme for his 2009 season, and took the loss as the Braves narrowly defeated the Cubs 2-1. |
Our View: Big Z pitched alright on short notice, his start was moved up a day because of Ryan Dempster's injury, but he again didn't will the Cubs to victory the way he used to. He is still a very effective fantasy starter, just not a top-tier one anymore.
|
|
|
|
| According to MLBlogs.com, Cubs' starter Carlos Zambrano will start Tuesday night in place of the injured Ryan Dempster. Zambrano was originally scheduled to start on Wednesday this week. |
Our View: Big Z owners need to move fast and get him in the lineup tonight, especially against the struggling Braves. Dempster was a late scratch, and the Cubs really didn't have any option other than moving Zambrano up a day. Get him in if you can.
|
|
|
|
| Carlos Zambrano held the Brewers to one run on five hits and three walks over seven innings on Friday, but did not factor in the decision. The Cubs eventually won 2-1 on a bases loaded walk in the tenth. |
Our View: Big Z only struck out three in the game, but delivered at the plate once again. He was 1-for-2 and drove in the Cubs only run of the first nine innings. Zambrano now has six quality starts in his last seven outings.
|
|
|
|
| According to a highly unofficial Chicago Tribune poll, 57 percent of its readers would support releasing Carlos Zambrano. |
Our View: Obviously, there is a near zero percent chance of this happening, but Cubs fans appear to be tiring quickly of the madness that has been surrounding the team lately. After manager Lou Piniella and Milton Bradley exchanged heated words on Friday, Zambrano failed to win for the sixth time in seven starts on Sunday, and appeared to plunk two White Sox on purpose. He will not be released, but he will continue to fall out of favor with the fans if he keeps not winning games or throwing tantrums.
|
|
|
|
| Carlos Zambrano was hit with his third loss of the season on Sunday as his Cubs were shut out by the White Sox 6-0. Zambrano went 5.1 innings and allowed five runs (four earned) on nine hits while walking two and striking out three. |
Our View: Big Z didn't get any run support today, but it didn't really matter because he wasn't very good. Zambrano is far from the dominant pitcher we have come to expect, but he is still decent and should be used in all leagues.
|
|
|
|
| Carlos Zambrano pitched effectively on Tuesday, going seven innings and allowing three runs while striking out three, but took a no-decision as the Cubs blew a 4-3 lead in the ninth, losing 5-4 to Detroit. |
Our View: Zambrano is no longer the overpowering pitcher he once was, he has yet to strike out more than seven batters in a game this season, but is still consistent and a top-flight fantasy option. He routinely goes seven innings or more, and has given up more than three earned runs in only one start so far in 2009.
|
|
|
|
| After having his scheduled Tuesday start rained out, Carlos Zambrano will now pitch on Thursday. |
Our View: He is taking Randy Wells' turn in the rotation.
|
|
|
|
| The Cubs game against the Chicago White Sox on Tuesday has been postponed due to rain. |
Our View: No word yet on when Big Z will pitch next, but it will likely be tomorrow. Stay tuned.
|
|
|
|
| Carlos Zambrano said he was not bothered by manager Lou Piniella's decision to remove him from the game Wednesday after eight innings despite having only thrown 104 pitches and the game being tied 1-1 according to the Chicago Tribune. His replacement, Angel Guzman retired only one batter before giving up the winning run in the ninth. |
Our View: Piniella's decision, while not uncommon in the pitch count era of baseball, is particularly puzzling given the fact he said it was the best game he had ever seen Zambrano pitch. Big Z has won only once in four starts since returning from the disabled list.
|
|
|
|
| Carlos Zambrano allowed only one run in eight innings of work, but he did not factor into the decision as the Cubs fell 2-1 on Wednesday. He struck out three while allowing only three hits and two walks. |
Our View: Zambrano has been excellent in his three starts since losing his mind against the Padres. All three starts have come against NL Central teams. He has allowed only two earned runs in 21 innings during that span. If he could get a little more run support, we could be talking about one of the better pitchers in the NL over the past month.
|
|
|
|
| Skipper Lou Piniella is not taking Carlos Zambrano's comments that he intends to retire at the end of his five-year deal with the Cubs seriously, according to the Chicago Sun-Times. Piniella said, "Ask him in a week, and he will probably want an extension." |
Our View: Piniella realizes that Zambrano is among the most eccentric players on the Cubs' roster. Zambrano is only 28 years old, and Piniella does not expect him to retire prematurely.
|
|
|
|
| According to MLB.com, Carlos Zambrano stated that he will retire once his current five-year, $91.5 million contract is up. He is in the second year of said contract. |
Our View: Zambrano, only 28 years old and fresh off his 100th victory had this to say, "After this contract, I'm done. I'm serious. I don't want to play. I want to help this team, I want to do everything possible to win with this team, but after five years or four years, or whatever I have left on my contract, I just don't want to play. Do you know how many things I've lost in my life?" What a rough life it is earning millions of dollars to play a game that you supposedly love. We feel for you Big Z. We really do.
|
|
|
|
| Carlos Zambrano was dominant in Friday's 2-1 win at Cincinnati, as he only allowed two hits over 6.2 scoreless innings. He issued five walks and fired seven strikeouts. He helped his own cause with a home run as well. |
Our View: This was Zambrano's best outing of the season, despite the five free passes. It is not an easy feat to shut down the Reds at the Great American Ballpark.
|
|
|
|
| According to the Chicago Sun-Times, Carlos Zambrano missed the team's scheduled charter flight on Monday without permission. |
Our View: Big Z was hauled into Lou Piniella's office and reprimanded (we're guessing very loudly), but it doesn't look like the team will pursue any action against him. The reason he missed the flight remains unknown. Zambrano is currently serving a six-game suspension for an altercation with an umpire last wednesday.
|
|
|
|
| The Chicago Tribune is reporting that Carlos Zambrano has apologized to MLB for his outburst in Wednesday's game. Zambrano was suspended six by the league after his tirade yesterday. |
Our View: Zambrano wants to move on, but his performance in the tirade yesterday was pretty intense. He will serve his suspension and pay the fine, but his actions will live forever on YouTube.
|
|
|
|
| SI.com is reporting that Carlos Zambrano has been suspended six games and fined $3,000 for his actions Wednesday in the Cubs' win over the Pirates. |
Our View: No surprise here as it was expected that Big Z would get suspended. The sort of surprising thing is that the bumping of the umpire does not seem to be the reason he was suspended, but instead it was his over-the-top antics after his ejection. He will miss one start, so fantasy owners keep that in mind going forward.
|
|
|
|
| According to the Arlington Daily Herald, Carlos Zambrano is likely facing a suspension after being ejected in the seventh inning of Wednesday's game against the Pirates. |
Our View: MLB will likely look into this tomorrow and Zambrano seems destined to be reprimanded. He bumped the umpire and then threw a series of animated temper tantrums after thinking that he tagged a runner out at the plate following his wild pitch. The runner was safe and Big Z was out of line. He chucked a ball into the stands, threw his glove across the field and then grabbed a bat and proceeded to destroy anything he could find in the dugout with it. He'll likely miss at least one start once MLB hands out the penalty.
|
|
|
|
| Carlos Zambrano allowed two runs (one earned) on seven hits and three walks over 6.1 innings in a 5-2 win over the Pirates. He fanned six, but did not factor in the decision. |
Our View: Big Z allowed a lot of base runners in this one, but managed to work his way out of jams. In two starts since coming off the DL he has walked seven batters in 11 innings and if this trend continues he won't be as fortunate as he was on Wednesday.
|
|
|
|
| Carlos Zambrano struck out seven batters in 4.2 innings against the Padres on Friday. However, Big Z took the loss by surrendering three runs on three hits and four walks. |
Our View: Zambrano obviously had some control issues tonight, but a lot of that may have been due to the rust he accumulated while on the DL. He was supposed to be on an 85-90 pitch count, but he threw 97 tonight.
|
|
|
|
| Carlos Zambrano has been activated from the 15-day DL and is scheduled to pitch on Friday night against Jake Peavy and the Padres. He is recovering from a strained left hamstring. |
Our View: In three career starts in San Diego, Big Z is 2-0 with a 1.42 ERA and a .375 batting average. This is as pitcher friendly a matchup that Zambrano owners can hope for, so be sure to get him into your lineups.
|
|
|
|
| Carlos Zambrano surrendered four runs over 3.2 innings of work Sunday in his rehab outing with Single-A Daytona, according to the Daily Herald. He is recovering from a strained left hamstring. |
Our View: Zambrano did not pitch well, but is still expected to be activated from the DL to start Friday's game against the Padres. Sean Marshall will come out of the rotation and work in the bullpen upon his return.
|
|
|
|
| Carlos Zambrano continues to make a quick recovery from his strained left hamstring, according to MLB.com. He did some fielding drills today, and commented that he "felt like a cat" on the mound. |
Our View: He is ready for a rehab start with Single-A Daytona Sunday, and is expected to throw 75 pitches. He remains on pace to return to the Cubs' rotation May 22 against San Diego.
|
|
|
|
| According to MLB.com, Carlos Zambrano's bullpen session on Wednesday was very successful. It was is first he had taken the hill since straining his hamstring on May 3rd. |
Our View: The next step for Big Z is to head to the Florida State League for a rehab start this weekend. Assuming all goes well, he will be slated to start on May 22nd against the Padres.
|
|
|
|
| According to MLB.com, Carlos Zambrano will throw a bullpen session on Wednesday and barring any setbacks will be slated for a rehab start this weekend. |
Our View: Big Z's hammy seems to be progressing and he is penciled in to return to the rotation on May 22nd. The Cubs would get boost from Zambrano's return, but he has struggled early this season with a 4.50 ERA in six starts.
|
|
|
|
| Carlos Zambrano, who is recovering from a strained left hamstring, is slated to throw a bullpen session during the middle of next week, according to the Chicago Tribune. |
Our View: The Cubs believe he is on pace to return to the team on May 19. His pen session will give the club an idea if he can meet that estimate.
|
|
|
|
| Carlos Zambrano began his rehab from his hamstring injury Tuesday, playing catch with strength coach Tim Buss and throwing a few pitches off the bullpen mound, according to the Chicago Tribune. |
Our View: Big Z is expected to be out 2-3 weeks, but we're guessing he will do his best to beat that timetable.
|
|
|
|
| ESPN reports that Carlos Zambrano has been placed on the 15-day DL with a sore hamstring. He is expected to miss two to three weeks. |
Our View: Zambrano injured his hammy while legging out a single. He should return at full strength and once he does let's hope he is more effective than he was to start out the season. Despite a 3-1 record, he has posted a 4.50 ERA and 1.42 WHIP.
|
|
|
|
| Carlos Zambrano could land on the 15-day DL due to a strained left hamstring, according to ESPN. |
Our View: Jeff Zamardzija would be a candidate for starts if Zambrano is shut down. We will keep you posted on Zambrano.
|
|
|
|
| Carlos Zambrano left Sunday's game in the fifth inning with an apparent hamstring injury, according to the Chicago Tribune. He hurt himself legging out a bunt and was replaced by Rich Harden on the bases and Angel Guzman on the mound. |
Our View: No word yet on the severity of the injury, but any time Big Z gets hurt there is a danger that he could miss significant time. We will keep you updated on his status.
|
|
|
|
| Carlos Zambrano earned his second win of the season on Tuesday with seven innings of three run ball on eight hits and two walks. The Cubs ripped the D-Backs 11-3 and Big Z was 3-for-4 at the plate with a home run. |
Our View: Zambrano is easily the most dangerous hitting pitcher in the game today. Along with his home run and three hits, he also drove in two and scored three runs. Too bad that's the same number he struck out over seven innings. The hits were impressive and the win was nice for fantasy owners, but the three Ks were low. Too bad offensive stats don't count for pitchers.
|
|
|
|
| Carlos Zambrano had a quality start on Thursday, but got stuck with the loss as the Cubs could only muster one run against the Reds. Big Z allowed four runs (three earned) on seven hits and two walks over seven innings. He's now 1-1 on the season. |
Our View: Zambrano kept up his solid strikeout rate this season with seven Ks in seven innings on Thursday, but his 4.85 ERA is troubling. He's no longer the ace he once was, but he's still a serviceable fantasy starter.
|
|
|
|
| Carlos Zambrano got roughed up in his outing against the Cardinals on Friday, going seven innings and allowing seven runs on nine hits while walking three and striking out seven. He did not factor into the decision. |
Our View: Zambrano looked dominant at times today, but for the most part the Cardinals had their way with Big Z. He got touched for three home runs, two of them by Ryan Ludwick. His strikeout total has been nice so far this season, but his ERA is high at 5.21. He is still a good, but not great, fantasy pitcher.
|
|
|
|
| Carlos Zambrano struck out six hitters over six innings as the Cubs defeated the Astros 4-2 on Monday. He scattered five hits and three walks while allowing just one run on his way to his first win of the season. |
Our View: Zambrano threw 59 of 97 pitches for strikes over his six innings of work. He showed plenty of velocity as his fastball was regularly clocked in the mid-90s.
|
|
|
|
| Carlos Zambrano allowed one run in a short outing on Wednesday. He tossed 3.1 innings and gave up two hits and two walks. |
Our View: Zambrano has had a fairly successful spring and the Cubs will be counting on him to lead their staff. But fantasy owners shouldn't count on him being the ace and strikeout maven he once was. He's in the down slope of his a career.
|
|
|
|
| Carlos Zambrano allowed two runs on five hits and two walks over six innings Friday. He struck out three in the contest. he was credited with the victory. |
Our View: Zambrano is not the ace he used to be, but he's having a strong spring. Beware of high walk totals, a rising ERA and decreasing K-rate. The last three years are the pudding. The proof is in there.
|
|
|
|
| Carlos Zambrano fared well in his fourth start of the spring as the Cubs beat Seattle 5-3 on Sunday. The starter allowed four hits, no walks, and just one run while striking out six in four innings of work. |
Our View: Zambrano has 15 strikeouts to just three walks in 14 innings this spring. He has given up his fair share of hits, but as long as his body holds up, he should be another solid fantasy contributor in 2009.
|
|
|
|
| Carlos Zambrano had an average day on the mound, but a phenomenal day at the plate Tuesday. He allowed three runs on three hits and two walks over five innings, but went 2-for-3 with a home run and four RBI in the batter's box. |
Our View: Too bad Zambrano's bat can't help your fantasy team. His numbers on the mound have declined the past three seasons and is no longer considered a top option fantasy starter. He's fading, but can still help your team. Just don't break the bank on him.
|
|
|
|
| Carlos Zambrano looked pretty good against Team Japan on Thurday, giving up one earned run (two total) off three hits and one walk while striking out two in four innings. |
Our View: It was announced earlier today that manager Lou Piniella has named Zambrano as Chicago's Opening Day starter despite the fact that he is coming off a season in which he posted the lowest K/9 mark of his career (6.20) and the highest H/9 mark (8.20). He should be useful, but don't expect a return to the glory days.
|
|
|
|
| The Chicago Sun-Times reports that Carlos Zambrano has been announced as the Cubs Opening Day starter. He will take the mound on the road April 6th against the Houston Astros. |
Our View: Be wary of Zambrano as his numbers have declined the past three seasons. He is no longer the fantasy ace he once was, but is a quality hurler as long as you don't pay too much or grab him too early.
|
|
|
|
| Carlos Zambrano was alright in his second spring training start, giving up two runs off four hits while striking out five in three innings against Milwaukee. |
Our View: While it wasn't his finest outing, it was good to see the five strikeouts without any walks. Zambrano will look for a bounce-back campaign in 2009 after regressing in 2008.
|
|
|
|
| Carlos Zambrano started against the Diamondbacks on Monday walking only one and striking out three in two hitless innings. |
Our View: Zambrano's shoulder didn't seem to be bothering him, which is a good sign, but a three year regression has dropped the Cub hurler out of elite starter territory. He could be a mid-round steal if he rebounds.
|
|
|
|
| The AP reports that Carlos Zambrano is feeling better this spring than any one previous, despite some concerns about his shoulder. Last season, he had to receive a cortisone shot late in the season due to soreness in the joint, but he has reportedly strengthened it in the offseason. The Cubs' ace feels that it won't give him any problems this season. |
Our View: What may give him more problems is his right eye. He has been considering Lasik eye surgery for over a month to correct a problem with it, but he has yet to undergo the procedure.
|
|
|
|
| The Chicago Tribune reports that Cubs right-hander Carlos Zambrano is taking prescription eye drops and may undergo Lasik eye surgery to correct a problem with his right eye. |
Our View: Whether Zambrano opts for surgery or chooses to take care of the problem on his own, the eye infection is not expected to cause him to miss any action this spring.
|
|
|
|
| The Chicago Tribune reports that the Ricketts family appears to have won the bidding for the Chicago Cubs. The final figure is believed to be $900 million dollars. |
Our View: Oenership wanted to have the sale completed by opening day, and it appears they will get their wish. The Cubs are among the most valuable franchises in professional sports.
|
|
|
|
| Carlos Zambrano will undergo LASIK surgery prior to spring training, according to MLB.com. |
Our View: Zambrano certainly didn't have any trouble seeing the ball last year, batting .337 for the Cubs while also hitting in 13 consecutive starts.
|
|
|
|
| Cubs' officials shot down the rumor that the club would consider trading Carlos Zambrano if they land Jake Peavy, according to BaseballProspectus.com. |
Our View: It would not make sense to unload one ace hurler (Zambrano) after acquiring another one (Peavy).
|
|
|
|
| Baseball Prospectus reports that the Cubs would entertain the idea of possibly trading right-hander Carlos Zambrano in a blockbuster if, as expected, they acquire Padres ace Jake Peavy. |
Our View: This seems very unlikely, but anything is possible. There would probably be a pretty good market for Zambrano despite his late season collapse. The Cubs are still looking for a left-handed bat.
|
|
|
|
| Carlos Zambrano won his second Silver Slugger award on Thursday, according to the Associated Press. |
Our View: Zambrano posted career highs in both average at .337, and RBI at 14. Zambrano also hit four home runs in 2008. With Zambrano in the nine hole, opposing pitchers couldn't afford to take a batter off.
|
|
|
|
| GM Jim Hendry has received a four-year contract extension through the 2012 season with the Cubs, according to the AP. Financial terms were not disclosed. Hendry said, "It’s an honor to receive this long-term commitment from the Chicago Cubs. We know there is work to be done in reaching our goal and I thank my staff for their commitment to this organization. We’ll continue to do everything it takes to reward our great fans for their dedication to this team."
|
Our View: The Cubs are 537-513 since Hendry became the GM in 2002. With more than six years in the position, Hendry already is the third-longest tenured GM in franchise history, trailing just John Holland (1957-1975) and James Gallagher (1940-49).
|
|
|
|
| Carlos Zambrano issued three earned runs on six hits over 6.1 innings in Thursday's disheartening 10-3 loss to the Dodgers in Game 2 of the NLDS at Wrigley Field, with two walks and seven strikeouts. The Cubs now trail 2-0 in the best-of-five series. |
Our View: The Cubs' ace pitcher has likely pitched his last game of the season with the club on the verge of elimination and playing the next two contests at Dodger Stadium.
|
|
|
|
| Earlier in the day, the Cubs said that Carlos Zambrano would start Sunday's game versus the Brewers and pitch one or two innings. Now they are saying that Zambrano will not pitch and it will be Angel Guzman on the hill, according to the Chicago Tribune. |
Our View: The Cubs wanted to give Big Z a couple of more innings to get him ready for the postseason but thought better of it. Zambrano will start in Game 2 of the NLDS.
|
|
|
|
| Carlos Zambrano will pitch Game 2 for the Cubs in the playoffs and on Sunday he will get his final tuneup before the postseason. Big Z will start the Cubs season finale on Sunday against the Brewers but he will only pitch one or two innings, according to the AP. |
Our View: Since throwing a no-hitter against the Astros, Zambrano has been very rocky. In his last 6.1 innings he has given up 13 runs.
|
|
|
|
| The Chicago Tribune reports that Cubs manager Lou Piniella announced his playoff rotation before Friday night's game, inserting Carlos Zambrano into the Game 2 slot behind Ryan Dempster |
Our View: Zambrano has been very rocky in his two starts since throwing his no-hitter. He has traditionally been a big game pitcher and should fare well in the playoffs.
|
|
|
|
| After lasting just 1.2 innings in his last start, Carlos Zambrano managed just 4.2 innings on Wednesday in New York. He gave up five runs on three hits and four walks. Most of the damage came on a Carlos Delgado grand slam after Zambrano had walked the bases loaded. |
Our View: It was another ugly start for Big Z who threw a no-hitter back on September 14th. The Cubs are certainly hoping for a re-focused Zambrano to show up in the playoffs.
|
|
|
|
| Carlos Zambrano will make his scheduled start on Wednesday and will not be on any type of pitch count, according to The Star Ledger. "He needs work," manager Lou Pinella said. "He missed two starts prior to the (Sept. 14 no-hitter), and his last start was an inning-plus." |
Our View: Zambrano followed up his no-hitter by getting bombed for eight runs last time out. Give his injury concerns and his terrible work in his last appearance, the Cubs really need to gauge just where Zambrano is right now as they attempt to set up their playoff rotation.
|
|
|
|
| The AP reports that after pitching the Cubs' first no-hitter in 36 years Sunday against Houston in Milwaukee, Carlos Zambrano allowed eight runs and six hits in just 1 2/3 innings against the Cardinals on Friday. It was his shortest outing in two years. |
Our View: Zambrano just didn't have it today and he knew it. In the second inning he asked a reluctant Lou Piniella to pull him out. The Cubs magic number remains two.
|
|
|
|
| Carlos Zambrano has been named the NL Player of the Week, according to TSN. During the award-winning week, he registered the Cubs' first no-hitter in 36 years, and struck out a season-high 10 Astros in the process. |
Our View: He also become the third Venezuelan to throw a no-hitter, joining Anibal Sanchez, who threw one with Florida in 2006, and Wilson Alvarez, who threw one with the White Sox back in 1991. This marks Zambrano's first weekly honor.
|
|
|
|
| Carlos Zambrano hurled the first Cubs no-hitter since 1972 (Milt Pappas) as he dominated the Astros for nine innings in his first start in 12 days because of shoulder discomfort. The only two bases runners to reach base were by a HBP and a walk as he struck out 10 while throwing 110 pitches. |
Our View: Wow. Maybe teams should go with 12-man rotations to allow there pitcher's adequate rest? Seriously, this was one of the more improbable no-hitters in recent memory given Zambrano's shoulder issues and his uneven performance over his last five appearances (8.10 ERA with 17 BB and just 19 K).
|
|
|
|
| Carlos Zambrano has been dealing with rotator cuff tendinitis and today he made a big step toward his return, according to the Chicago Sun-Times. Zambrano threw off flat ground today in St. Louis and manager Lou Piniella said,"Zambrano had a good throw day, and he's on track." |
Our View: Zambrano is said to be nearly locked into a start on Saturday against the Houston Astros.
|
|
|
|
| Carlos Zambrano, who is dealing with rotator cuff tendinitis, threw lightly on Sunday and reported no issues after his session, according to the Chicago Sun-Times. Zambrano received an anti-inflammatory injection Thursday after leaving his start Tuesday because of discomfort in his right shoulder. Manager Lou Piniella said, "He felt pretty good, which is good news."
|
Our View: Zambrano's status for the series next weekend against the Astros will be determined after he has a full bullpen session in St. Louis.
|
|
|
|
| MLB.com reports that Carlos Zambrano said Friday he was encouraged by the MRI results that showed he has tendinitis in his shoulder, The Cubs pitcher wanted to also correct reports saying he had missed his scheduled MRI exam. "Thank God it was nothing serious," Zambrano said of the test results. |
Our View: It's possible he could start next weekend against Houston but don't count on the Cubs rushing back their ace so close to playoff time. Still, this is good news for Cubs fans. Fantasy owners should still get a few more solid outings from him and we will monitor the rehab closely.
|
|
|
|
| Cubs ace Carlos Zambrano underwent an MRI, and it showed that the right-hander is suffering from right shoulder inflammation and rotator cuff tendinitis, according to the AP. He received a shot in the arm - the literal kind, not the metaphorical kind - and is to begin throwing next week with hopes he will return soon after that. |
Our View: Zambrano had been bad in recent starts, and this is likely the reason why. The Cubs hope to have him back in about two weeks, so owners with him on their fantasy squad should monitor his progress until that time.
|
|
|
|
| Carlos Zambrano, scratched from his start on Sunday because of a tired arm, will start on Tuesday against Brandon Backe, according to the Associated Press. |
Our View: Zambrano has posted an 8.72 ERA over his last four starts with 14 BB and just 16 K. With numbers like that, start him Tuesday at your own risk.
|
|
|
|
| Cubs hurler Carlos Zambrano was scratched from his scheduled start on Sunday to rest what has been described as a tired arm, according to the AP. |
Our View: Zambrano has seen diminished velocity and poor results recently, so Sean Marshall got the start instead. No word on exactly how long Big Z will be sidelined.
|
|
|
|
| If you have watched the radar gun when Carlos Zambrano has pitched this month, you know something's not right. The problem, the Cubs right-hander said Saturday, is that he's going through a "dead arm" phase, according to MLB.com. "I've been doing all my things and my work and have been working out," Zambrano said. "I'm trying to throw as hard as I can, and you see the gun -- 91, 88 [mph]. Everybody goes through these, and I just have to wait for my arm strength and my arm power to come back, so I can do a good job for my team." |
Our View: Zambrano is 1-1 with a 7.43 ERA in five August starts, and 13-5 with a 3.53 ERA overall. He'll have one more start this month, on Sunday in the series finale against the Phillies. In his last outing Tuesday against the Pirates, he lasted 4 1/3 innings and gave up six runs on eight hits. He threw 98 pitches, which is his average this month, and did not get a decision. Since that game, Zambrano has lightened up his workload. Instead of throwing a bullpen session, Cubs pitching coach Larry Rothschild had the right-hander play catch. That way, Zambrano can stretch out his arm and strengthen it.
|
|
|
|
| Carlos Zambrano said he feels fine and is ready to rebound from a disappointing August, according to the Chicago Tribune. Zambrano assured to the team that his shoulder is fine and GM Jim Hendry said, "He has no discomfort, he feels good and he's very confident he'll rebound, and he probably will. He just, for whatever reason, has hit the wall a little bit, and obviously his velocity was a little down Tuesday night."
|
Our View: He only won one game in August, with one loss and three no decisions. He allowed five or more earned runs three times over the span. He should remain active in fantasy lineups, and hopefully he can finish the season strong, as he said he will.
|
|
|
|
| Carlos Zambrano didn't have it Tuesday, giving up six runs on eight hits and four walks over 4 1/3 innings. |
Our View: There's something about August that doesn't agree with Carlos. He held a 7.06 ERA in the month last year and has a 7.43 ERA in August this season.
|
|
|
|
| The Chicago Sun-Times reports that Carlos Zambrano broke a piece of his molar while chewing gum Thursday. |
Our View: Zambrano expects to see a dentist today. The ailment is not expected to compromise his next start.
|
|
|
|
| Carlos Zambrano only issued one earned run on six hits over seven innings in Thursday's close 3-2 win over the Reds at Wrigley Field, with four walks and four strikeouts. The only run scored against him came on a Jay Bruce home run. Zambrano also hit his fourth home run of the season in the game. |
Our View: Zambrano improves to 13-5, and bounced back nicely as he allowed 14 earned runs over his previous two starts (10.1 innings).
|
|
|
|
| Chicago ace Carlos Zambrano suffered the loss today in one of his worst outings of the season, going just 4 1/3 innnings to allow nine runs (all earned) on ten hits with one walk and three strikeouts. |
Our View: Zambrano allowed four homers, including two in the third with Troy Glaus hitting one each in the fourth and fifth innings. The hurler went 4-1 over five starts in July, allowing just two homers throughout those trips to the mound. Thus far in two starts in August, he has yet to earn a victory, has yet to go beyond the fifth inning, and has yet to leave without giving up at least one homer.
|
|
|
|
| The Chicago Cubs want to be able to play night games on Friday and Saturday night in order to get their players better rested, according to the Chicago Sun-Times. Currently, they cannot play on those nights because community leaders are worried about congestion and crime. |
Our View: The Cubs can only play 30 night games per season, and they want to open it up some so players coming off of road trips can sleep more than a few hours per night. Who knows, maybe it will help their fantasy numbers as well.
|
|
|
|
| Carlos Zambrano held the Pirates to just three hits and one walk over five innings, but inexplicably he was removed from the game after throwing just 82 pitches as he ended up with a no decision on the afternoon. |
Our View: Zambrano had thrown 125 and 118 pitches in his last two starts, but this is just crazy. Zambrano had retired 12-straight batters when he was removed, and at 82 pitches on the day no less. If the Cubs were that worried about his health, why not just skip his turn in the rotation?
|
|
|
|
| Chicago ace Carlos Zambrano will put his perfect home record on the line today as the Cubs welcome the Pittsburgh Pirates today, sending RHP Ian Snell to the hill to help their efforts, according to the Miami Herald. |
Our View: Zambrano is 6-0 with a 2.28 earned run average in 11 home starts this year. Visiting clubs are hitting just .230 versus Zambrano this year at Wrigley, where he hasn't lost since September of last year. The right-hander was won two straight starts and four of his last five outings, pitching to a 1.78 ERA in that time. Snell is 4-8 with a 6.04 ERA in 21 starts and just 1-5 with a 5.26 ERA in nine games (7 starts) lifetime versus the Cubs.
|
|
|
|
| Carlos Zambrano was completely dominant against the Milwaukee Brewers, picking up his 12th win of the season by pitching eight shutout innings, allowing just five hits while striking out nine. |
Our View: After a rough June, Zambrano has been great in July, and his ERA for the month is now 1.79.
|
|
|
|
| Carlos Zambrano allowed two earned runs on six hits over seven innings in Thursday's 6-3 win over the Marlins at Wrigley Field, with no walks and six strikeouts. Both runs surrendered came on a home run by Hanley Ramirez in the third inning. |
Our View: Zambrano improves to 11-4, and bounced back from a poor outing against Cincinnati in his last start. The Cubs' ace is 3-1 over his last four trips to the mound.
|
|
|
|
| Carlos Zambrano, who pitched poorly Saturday in Houston, will start Thursday against the Marlins back home in Wrigley. He owns a 3-1 record with a 2.54 ERA over seven lifetime starts against the Marlins.
|
Our View: We fully expect big Z to throw a gem. The Cubs ace has been masterful on the Wrigley Field mound this season, bringing a 5-0 record and a 2.25 earned run average in 10 home starts.
|
|
|
|
| Carlos Zambrano's first start of the second half didn't go so well. He allowed four runs on six hits and six walks over 6 1/3 innings. The only thing he did well was hit a solo homer, his second of the season. It was the only offense the Cubs could muster off Wandy Rodriguez in the 4-1 loss. |
Our View: Big Z had been doing a great job at limiting the free passes this year, so his wildness Saturday was disappointing.
|
|
|
|
| Carlos Zambrano was limited to 87 pitches in his first start since returning from the DL and 103 pitches in his second, and he wants his restriction lifted going forward, according to the Chicago Tribune. He said, "I think Lou will lift the pitch-limit. Why not? I'm not hurt. I'm ready to go 100-110 pitches, and, hopefully, I can do what I did the last time against Cincinnati and throw eight innings."
|
Our View: Zambrana admitted that the two-week stint on the DL did his body some good while resting, and he thinks he will still be able to throw 200 innings this season.
|
|
|
|
| Carlos Zambrano threw two scoreless innings for the National League, striking out one and allowing only one hit. |
Our View: Zambrano continued the dominating performances by the pitchers in this game.
|
|
|
|
| Chicago ace Carlos Zambrano made the job of working as the catalyst for success look easy this evening, putting the Cincinnati reds to bed with ease. Zambrano pitched eight innings of dominating baseball, allowing just one run on one hit with no walks and five strikeouts. |
Our View: The win is Zambrano's 10th on the season, touting an ERA of 2.84. His only mistake: a 2nd-inning homer to Adam Dunn. After going 1-2 through four starts in June, Zambrano is now 2-0 in July with one earned run allowed through 14 innings of work.
|
|
|
|
| The Cubs are believed to be well-represented at this year's All-Star Game at Yankee Stadium, according to the Chicago Tribune. The official selections will be announced soon today, and Carlos Zambrano, Geovany Soto, Alfonso Soriano, Kosuke Fukudome, Kerry Wood, and Ryan Dempster are all believed to have made the NL squad. |
Our View: The Cubs currently lead the National League with a 52-36 record, and it would not be surprising to see the team have six reps in the All-Star Game.
|
|
|
|
| Carlos Zambrano, who was activated from the DL prior to the game, hurled six scoreless innings with only four hits issued, in Friday night's close 2-1 win over the Cardinals. He had two walks with five strikeouts. |
Our View: That was his first win since June 2, and the fourth time he held a team scoreless.
|
|
|
|
| Carlos Zambrano has been officially activated from the DL, and is set to start against the Cardinals tonight, according to the AP. Jose Ascanio has been optioned to Triple-A Iowa to make room on the roster. |
Our View: Zambrano should be penciled into your lineups for tonight.
|
|
|
|
| Carlos Zambrano will be activated from the disabled list today in order to make tonight's start against the St. Louis Cardinals, according to the Associated Press. |
Our View: Zambrano is absolutely dominant in the Gateway City, with an ERA of 0.70. Be sure to get him in your lineup in time for tonight's game.
|
|
|
|
| The Chicago Sun-Times reports that Carlos Zambrano is scheduled to fly to St. Louis today ahead of the team to prepare to pitch the opener of a key three-game series against the Cardinals this weekend. A sore right shoulder landed him on the DL back on June 21 but he is now ready to come off of it just in time to face his rivals.
|
Our View: This seems all too pre-meditated by the Cubs who have rested their ace for two weeks prior to a pivotal series in St. Louis. Zambrano is 5-1 with a 0.70 ERA for his career in St. Louis.
|
|
|
|
| Carlos Zambrano threw a pain-free bullpen session on Sunday and declared himself ready to return to the rotation. "I feel great today. I guess 'Z' is back," Zambrano tells the AP. "I'm ready to go out there and do my job." Zambrano, who is out due to a strained right shoulder, will throw another side session on Tuesday. He expects to be activated to start on July 4 against the Cardinals. |
Our View: It sounds like fantasy owners can safely start Zambrano in the week ahead.
|
|
|
|
| Carlos Zambrano, who is recovering from a strained right shoulder, threw off flat ground Thursday, according to MLB.com. His next step will be a bullpen session, set for Sunday if today goes favorably. He said, "I feel good. I'm ready to keep doing my exercises and see what is scheduled for me."
|
Our View: He was projected to miss two starts and would be eligible to come off the DL during the Cubs' series against the Cardinals, starting on the Fourth of July.
|
|
|
|
| Carlos Zambrano has been placed on the 15-day DL due to his right shoulder strain, according to the AP. The team recalled Eric Patterson from Triple-A Iowa as an adjoining move. |
Our View: The move is retroactive to June 19. Sean Marshall has been tabbed to cover his next turn in the rotation on Tuesday.
|
|
|
|
| The MRI results are back, and the news is good for Carlos Zambrano, according to the Chicago Sun Times. The test showed that his labrum was intact and that he is merely suffering from a minor shoulder strain. |
Our View: No decision has been made as to whether or not he will be placed on the DL, but he will miss his next start as the team will recall Sean Marshall to start on Tuesday.
|
|
|
|
| Carlos Zambrano, who is experiencing right shoulder discomfort, will undergo an MRI on Thursday, according to the Chicago Sun-Times. Zambrano left Wednesday's game after 6.2 innings of work and said, "There was a funny pitch that I felt something in my arm, and then the last pitch that I threw in the game, I dropped my arm a lot because I couldn't go back over the top with my arm." |
Our View: The Cubs' pennant hopes could hinge on the outcome of his MRI. We will keep you posted of the results when they are disclosed.
|
|
|
|
| Carlos Zambrano dropped just his second game in his last nine decisions. He allowed five runs on seven hits, walked four and struck out only two over 6.2 innings. The Z-pack departed after throwing 100 pitches. The Cubs later said he was lifted because of right shoulder discomfort.
|
Our View: Zambrano is scheduled to return to Chicago on Thursday, where he will see a doctor and have an MRI examination.
|
|
|
|
| Chicago RHP Carlos Zambrano has left tonight's game against Tampa Bay with shoulder discomfort, according to the Chicago Sun-Times. |
Our View: The severity of his injury was not immediately known. Zambrano, who entered the game with an 8-2 record and 2.98 ERA, struggled with his command, and his velocity was noticeably down throughout his start. We will update as news becomes available.
|
|
|
|
| Manager Lou Piniella tweaked the Cubs rotation last week to open up another start for Carlos Zambrano. Now the Cubs skipper has changed his mind, according to the Chicago Sun-Times. Following the off-day on Monday, June 16, the Cubs will go with Ryan Dempster, Zambrano, Sean Gallagher, Ted Lilly, Jason Marquis, and Dempster again before an off-day on June 23. That means Zambrano won't face the White Sox next weekend. |
Our View: This news shouldn't affect too many fantasy leagues, but you'll note that Dempster becomes a two-start option next week. Zambrano was previously expected to be that two-start guy.
|
|
|
|
| Carlos Zambrano allowed two runs over seven innings on Thursday against the Braves. Zambrano struck out only three batters on the day with three walks to pick up the no-decision. |
Our View: Zambrano continues to be unable to punch out batters out as he has had three or fewer strikeouts in six of his last nine starts, an alarmingly low rate for a pitcher who has averaged 196 K the past three years. He doesn't appear to be injured, but perhaps all the innings are starting to catch up to him?
|
|
|
|
| Carlos Zambrano allowed a career worst 13 hits in 6.2 innings leading to sevens runs in a loss to the Dodgers on Sunday. Zambrano had a shutout through five innings before allowing two runs in the sixth and five in the seventh. |
Our View: Zambrano took out his frustrations on a couple of water coolers in the dugout with his best Pele kicking action. Look for Big Z to rebound next time out as he allowed only one walk on the day but just got beat on some bad pitches today.
|
|
|
|
| Carlos Zambrano improved to 8-1 on Monday, although he didn't give his finest effort. The Cubs ace allowed five hits and three runs over five innings against the Padres. Zambrano threw only 51 of his 96 pitches for strikes, walked four batters, and struck out two. |
Our View: You know things are going well for a pitcher when he struggles like CZ did on Monday yet still hangs in there and picks up a win. We can't help but worry a bit about his recent lack of control and low strikeout numbers, though.
|
|
|
|
| Chicago ace RHP Carlos Zambrano was earning his money this evening, pitching strong through eight innings to allow just one run on six hits with four walks and three strikeouts. He walked off with the loss on his shoulders, down 1-0 to the Dodgers, but the hitting came late and the relief pitching snitched the victory. |
Our View: That's three no decisions in an otherwise perfect month for Zambrano, 3-0 through May with just six earned runs allowed in those three that failed to yield the same result.
|
|
|
|
| Carlos Zambrano had quite a night for the Cubs Friday, both on the mound and at the plate. The righty allowed just two runs on six hits and a walk while striking out six in seven innings. In the batter's box he was 4-for-5 with two RBI and a run scored. Zambrano's ERA on the year is 2.47 and his batting average is .343. |
Our View: Big Z sure pulled out all the stops tonight. You can put any qualms you had about his phantom shoulder injury to rest.
|
|
|
|
| Manager Lou Pinella has said that published reports stating that the Cubs are "keeping a close eye" on Carlos Zambrano's shoulder are untrue, according to the Chicago Tribune. "I don't where all this stuff came from, but I'll tell you this--Larry Rothschild told me yesterday he had the best throw day he had all year," Piniella said. "So, physically, there's nothing wrong." |
Our View: The previous report stated that Zambrano's so-called shoulder problems weren't serious, anyway, but his owners should be breathing a sigh of relief regardless.
|
|
|
|
| Carlos Zambrano's stiff shoulder is a concern for the Cubs, according to FanNation.com. The Cubs' medical staff is keeping a close watch on him this week, and he said he has minor discomfort when he turns his head to the left. |
Our View: It's not considered serious and didn't appear to have a significant effect in his no-decision Saturday. The Cubs' ace threw a full bullpen session Tuesday and remains on target to make his next scheduled start Friday.
|
|
|
|
| Carlos Zambrano was rocked over four innings of work and ended with a no decision in Saturday's 7-6 loss to the Pirates. The Cubs' ace allowed five runs on seven hits, with three walks and three strikeouts. |
Our View: That was his first loss at home in 2008, as he was 4-0 with a 1.96 ERA at Wrigley Field heading into today's battle.
|
|
|
|
| Carlos Zambrano will be aiming for his seventh win of the season when the Cubs host the Pirates at Wrigley Field today, according to MLB.com. Zambrano is 6-1 with a 2.03 ERA and 1.11 WHIP over 62 innings. |
Our View: Zambrano is off to the best start of his career, and is 4-0 with a 1.96 ERA at home. He is also getting the job done with his bat. He now has hit safely in his last four starts, going 5-for-10 with a double and a homer.
|
|
|
|
| Carlos Zambrano, who was held out of Sunday's start against Arizona due to inclimate weather, won his fifth consecutive decision over the hapless San Diego Padres on Monday night. |
Our View:
Pitching with an extra day's rest, Zambrano allowed six hits and three runs in seven innings.
|
|
|
|
| Carlos Zambrano has been scratched from his scheduled start on Sunday due to bad weather, the Arizona Republic confirms. Sean Gallagher will start in his place. |
Our View: We don't even know if the Cubs and Diamondbacks will get this one in. In the meantime, we hope Gallagher is delighting the fans by smashing watermelons.
|
|
|
|
| Chicago ace Carlos Zambrano showed why he is the face of success for the Cubs, pitching his team to a dominating 3-0 victory. Zambrano pitched eight innings, failing to surrender a single run on three hits. The Chicago hurler surrendered three walks balanced with three strike outs, picking up his fifth win of the season. |
Our View: With one minor sidenote of worry, Zambrano now touts nine walks over his last three starts after throwing just six in his first six starts.
|
|
|
|
| Carlos Zambrano developed a blister on his right index finger in Thursday's no-decision, according to the Chicago Sun-Times. He had thrown 111 pitches in the game, so the high pitch count likely had more to do with him getting taken out than the blister. ''That was enough for me,'' Zambrano said. ''I had a little blister on my [right index] finger. |
Our View: This doesn't sound like anything to worry about at this point, but it's certainly possible the blister could get worse and force Big Z to miss some time.
|
|
|
|
| Carlos Zambrano had another great outing on Thursday allowing only one run over 6.1 innings to the Brewers. Zambrano allowed seven hits and two walks, while striking out three in the no-decision. |
Our View: Zambrano's well below his career K/9 rate of 7.83 this year (6.70), but he has also cut his walk rate in half (2.11 per nine). As long as he keeps throwing strikes, there is no reason to think he will be anything other than a fantasy stud this season.
|
|
|
|
| Carlos Zambrano improved to 4-1 after throwing seven scoreless innings against Washington. He allowed five hits, four walks and struck out five. |
Our View: He continues to make a nice rebound following a down 2007 season, decreasing his ERA to 2.21. He has allowed nine walks in 40.2 innings this season, which is a significant improvement over the last two years when he allowed more than 100 walks in each season.
|
|
|
|
| Carlos Zambrano picked up his third victory of the season on Monday going seven strong innings for the Cubs. Zambrano allowed one run on five hits and two walks. |
Our View: Zambrano has been successful in the early going thanks to unheard of control for him with just five walks in five games. If he continues to limit his walks, Zambrano could easily be a top-10 hurler this season.
|
|
|
|
| Carlos Zambrano picked up his third quality start of the season on Tuesday, and notched his second win of the young season. The Z-Man gave up two runs on eight hits over seven innings of work. If he can continue to throw the same strikeout to walk ratio (5:1) at his gameday line moving forward, the big right-hander is in for a solid season. |
Our View: The Cubs' ace is a two start pitcher in Week 4, facing an overrated Mets offense and Nats' bats that he should find favorable.
|
|
|
|
| Carlos Zambrano went seven strong innings on Wednesday night to pick up his second victory of the season. Zambrano gave up eight hits, one walk and two runs while striking out five Reds. |
Our View: Seemingly over his early season health concerns, Zambrano is back to being the dominating starter that he should be as he has allowed only three walks in four starts after years of walking everyone in the ballpark.
|
|
|
|
| Carlos Zambrano needed 107 pitches to make it through six innings on Friday night as he allowed five runs to pick up his first loss of the season against the Phillies. Zambrano allowed nine hits but only one walk on the night, though five of those 10 runners crossed the plate as his ERA rose to 3.20. |
|
|
|
| Carlos Zambrano allowed two runs and seven hits with no walks over seven innings of work Sunday. After leaving his opening day start, bothered by cramping, he was advised by the team's training staff to cut back on his pregame caffeine intake and drink more water. He threw 105 pitches against Houston and recorded his first win of the season.
|
|
|
|
| Carlos Zambrano is set to return to the hill today against Houston, according to the Sports Network. Zambrano was notably forced to leave his last outing on Monday due to a cramp in his right forearm, but the injury was determined to have been caused by dehydration, and he won't miss his scheduled start today. This is great news as Zambrano has dominated the Astros, as he holds a 10-6 mark with a 2.65 ERA over 26 games, with 126 strikeouts.
|
|
|
|
| Carlos Zambrano should be fine, he just needs to eat more bananas, according to MLB.com. He was forced out of his first start of the season due to cramps, but the team determined that it was caused by a low potassium level. Manager Piniella stated that it is something that shouldn't occur again. |
|
|
|
| Following up an earlier report, Carlos Zambrano left Monday's game with forearm cramps, not a hand injury as initially thought, according to the Chicago Tribune.
Zambrano was forced to leave the scoreless game in the seventh inning after picking Bill Hall off second base. He began shaking his right arm immediately afterwards and came out of the game.
Zambrano has suffered this same injury in the past due to dehydration, or in his own words, "not drinking enough water," during games.
Zambrano remains winless in his four opening day starts. The good news is he is not expected to miss his next start. |
|
|
|
| Carlos Zambrano left Monday’s home opener against the Milwaukee Brewers in the seventh inning with what appeared to be a hand injury, this according to the AP. The Cubs ace suffered the injury while making a pickoff throw to second base.
There is no word yet on the seriousness of the injury or whether Zambrano will miss his next start. Carlos Marmol was called out of the bullpen to replace Zambrano. |
|
|
|
| Carlos Zambrano was off his game against the Angels on Wednesday as he got rocked for four runs on four hits (one home run) over four innings of work, but salvaged his day with five strikeouts. He ended the game with a no decision and his spring ERA remains solid at 2.37. The Cubs ace should bounce back fine. |
|
|
|
| Carlos Zambrano will make his final spring start on Wednesday when he faces the Los Angeles Angels in Tempe, according to MLB.com. Zambrano, the Opening Day starter, has walked three and given up eight hits in 15 innings so far while striking out 14. After this, Zambrano's next game will be Monday at Wrigley Field against the Milwaukee Brewers. |
|
|
|
| Carlos Zambrano continues to work as one of the most dominant pitchers in the game, working four innings in today's 4-6 loss to the Oakland Athletics, giving up four hits and one run, striking out three without a walk. This spring, Zambrano has walked just one batter in nine total innings of work and has collected eight strikeouts. In other words, he's in form. |
|
|
|
| Carlos Zambrano threw three innings of scoreless ball for the Cubs in a 4-5 loss to the Arizona Diamondbacks, according to the Associated Press. Zambrano allowed just one hit, struck out three, and hit a homer of his own to cap an impressive spring training performance. |
|
|
|
| Carlos Zambrano left Sunday's game before the seventh inning because of cramping, according to the AP. He allowed just three hits in six shutout innings prior to his departure. This was just a precautionary move, so don't expect it to be an issue going forward. |
|
|
|
| Carlos Zambrano, who threw 101 pitches in his last start on Friday, will pitch against the Reds on Tuesday on three days' rest, according to the Chicago Sun-Times. "We'll see what happens Tuesday," he said of his scheduled start against Cincinnati at home. "If I can pitch with three days rest all the time in my life, I'll be happy. I feel much better when I pitch with less rest than with five or six days." |
|
|
|
| Cubs starter Carlos Zambrano allowed eight earned runs in 4 2/3 innings of work Monday against the Dodgers. He has now allowed 30 earned runs in his last five outings. |
Our View: Zambrano owners may want to reserve the fiery righthander until he rights the ship. Otherwise, the next opportunity to hold your breath with Big Z will be Saturday when the Cubs take on the Pirates.
|
|
|
|
| Carlos Zambrano, who was set to become a free agent after the season, inked a five-year, $91.5 million contract extension with the Cubs on Friday, according to the AP. The deal also includes a full no-trade clause along with a sixth-year player option worth $19.25 million. Zambrano, who is 14-9 with a 3.86 ERA this year, could have brought in a much bigger paycheck had he tested free agency, but it's obvious that he wanted to stay in Chicago. |
|
|
|
| Lou Piniella dismissed reports that Carlos Zambrano has a sore arm. "I haven't heard anything. I really haven't," Piniella told the AP. "It would be news to me. I think I would know something. I just talked to him inside and he didn't mention anything." In a strange performance on Tuesday night, Zambrano pitched seven innings without a strikeout and lower than normal velocity. "That's what's surprising, because he usually gets his share of (strikeouts)," Piniella said. |
|
|
|
| Carlos Zambrano has announced that he's ready to sign a five-year extension with the Cubs, according to the Chicago Tribune. "I'm ready to sign," Zambrano said. "My hand is ready to sign that contract. Just bring it to me. I want to stay here and be a Cubbie for a long time." That said, the two parties have not had any recent conversations, so it still may be a while before a deal actually gets done. Zambrano is thought to be looking at a deal that brings him about $18 million per season. |
|
|
|
| Carlos Zambrano left Friday's start against the Mets due to heat-related cramping, according to the AP. The right-hander tied a career-high with seven walks prior to his departure, although he allowed just one run in five innings. |
|
|
|
| Carlos Zambrano took a line drive off his pitching hand from the first batter of the game Wednesday, and he said he had a headache from the heat during his five-inning stint, the AP reports. The Cubs pulled him to give him extra rest with a 9-0 lead. He's now won seven of his last nine starts, allowing just 10 earned runs over that span. |
|
|
|
| Carlos Zambrano said Monday he wants to stay with the Cubs and has faith that he will eventually sign a contract extension, according to the AP. "That's what I feel, man, that I will sign back with the Cubs," Zambrano said. |
|
|
|
| The Cubs have been in contract talks with Carlos Zambrano, but if they opt to deal the right-hander, the Mets would be very interested. A MLB executive tells the New York Post that the Mets would be "heavily involved" if the Cubs offer up Zambrano. |
|
|
|
| Carlos Zambrano and Michael Barrett will be disciplined by the Cubs following their fight on Friday, MLB.com reveals. The two fought in the dugout and later resumed their fisticuffs in the locker room. Barrett went to the hospital due to a cut on his lip. Manager Lou Piniella will handle the punishment, team officials explain. |
|
|
|
| Carlos Zambrano and the Cubs appear close to inking a contract extension before the season gets underway; the pitcher had set an opening-day deadline, according to the Chicago Tribune. "We had a nice conversation, and everything's positive and on the upbeat," GM Jim Hendry said of a face-to-face meeting with Zambrano's agent. "Hopefully we'll be able to come together." |
|
|
|
| Carlos Zambrano agreed to a one-year, $12.4 million deal with the Cubs on Tuesday, avoiding arbitration, according to the AP. Zambrano made $6.5 million last season. |
|
|
|
| Carlos Zambrano and the Cubs began discussions this week on general parameters of a possible five-year deal, the Chicago Sun-Times reports. According to GM Jim Hendry, no formal proposals and no specific dollar figures have been exchanged as of yet. |
|
|
|
| Carlos Zambrano, set to become a free agent after the season, said Monday that if he doesn't reach a contract extension with the Cubs before the season, he will go elsewhere in free agency, according to the Chicago Tribune. "I'm ready to sign, and I would do my job anyway with the Cubs this year," Zambrano said. "Whatever happens, I don't want to know [anything] about a contract during the season. I want to sign with the Cubs before the season starts. If they don't sign me, sorry, but I must go. That's what Carlos Zambrano thinks." Zambrano is said to be looking for a contract similar to the seven-year, $126 million deal Barry Zito signed last month. |
|
|
|
| Carlos Zambrano, who earned $6.5 million last season and went 16-7 with a 3.41 ERA and set a new career-high with 210 strikeouts, asked for $15.5 million in arbitration on Tuesday, according to the AP. The Cubs offered $11,025,000 to Zambrano, who is eligible for free agency next offseason. |
|
|
|
| Carlos Zambrano returned from his back injury to start for the Cubs on Sunday. Zambrano allowed four hits in seven scoreless innings to improve to 15-6. Zambrano struck out six and walked four. |
|
|
|
| Carlos Zambrano looked good enough in his bullpen session yesterday that he was cleared to start tomorrow's game, according to the Daily Southtown. He's been nursing a tight back, though an MRI revealed no significant problem. |
|
|
|
| Although he's nursing a tight back, Carlos Zambrano wants to start Sunday and Cubs manager Dusty Baker did not rule it out, according to the AP. "I'm pitching on Sunday," said Zambrano. He hasn't pitched since Sept. 4 because of a sore back. |
|
|
|
| Carlos Zambrano threw a bullpen session Thursday and is still hoping to pitch again this year, according to the Cubs official site. Zambrano is battling a sore back. |
|
|
|
| After getting a second consecutive positive report on his ailing back, Carlos Zambrano said that he thinks he can return by the end of the week, according to the Chicago Sun-Times. He will meet with manager Dusty Baker and trainer Mark O'Neal today to figure out when he will pitch next. "Probably at the end of the week," Zambrano said about his return. "Carlos will be on the mound Thursday, Friday or Saturday." Zambrano hasn't pitched since Sept. 4 because of the injury. |
|
|
|
| Carlos Zambrano got a second opinion on his ailing back Monday, though the results are not yet known, according to the Chicago Tribune. Zambrano had an MRI last Tuesday that revealed no structural damage to his back. "He and his agent have requested a second opinion with a doctor in Miami," trainer Mark O'Neal said. Zambrano, threw off flat ground again on Sunday, still hopes to pitch again this year, but that is still up in the air.
|
|
|
|
| Carlos Zambrano threw a bit before yesterday's game and said his ailing back felt a little stiff, according to the Daily Southtown. "I'm not a quitter so I definitely don't want to shut it down for the rest of the season," he said. "I'm going to keep throwing a little, take treatments and see how I feel next week." |
|
|
|
| After Carlos Zambrano underwent an MRI yesterday, it was determined that he won't need surgery to repair his ailing back, according to the Daily Southtown. While the Cubs believe he could return to action this year, Zambrano didn't sound too certain about that. "It depends on how I feel, and I don't feel good right now," Zambrano said. "I want to pitch, man, but I can't take a risk with my career. When you have back problems, you can hurt your shoulder with your delivery. That can be the end of my career or one or two seasons. I don't want that to happen." Rookie Jae Kuk Ryu is the top candidate to start in place of Zambrano on Saturday. |
|
|
|
| Carlos Zambrano could be shut down for the season because of a back injury that forced the right-hander to leave Monday's game early, according to the Chicago Tribune. "I feel like my back was locked," Zambrano said. "The doctor talked to me [about] what can happen, 'If we want to stop you for this year.' I don't know. That's their decision." Zambrano admitted that he felt pain before the game but decided not to tell anyone. "That was my mistake," he said. "I had a problem before the game and didn't tell anybody, trying to be the hero." Zambrano will have an MRI today to determine what caused the lower-back stiffness |
|
|
|
| Carlos Zambrano allowed four hits and four earned runs in 1 1/3 innings on Monday and left the game with stiffness in his lower back. He will have an MRI on Tuesday. "I couldn't throw today," said Zambrano. "I couldn't bend today, and as a pitcher, you have to bend as much as possible to get the strike zone and to get your command. |
|
