Latest News On Carlos Zambrano

By: Stephen Patterson

Since his suspension last month for getting into an altercation with teammate Derrek Lee, there hasn't been much news on Carlos Zambrano of the Chicago Cubs. It has now been learned that Zambrano will pitch in a simulated game on Monday in Arizona. He is then expected to start pitching for Triple-A Iowa later in the week. He will probably make a few appearances there before returning to the Cubs.

As a condition of his suspension, Zambrano had to complete anger management treatment before the team would consider allowing him to return. He has had a tumultuous season to say the least. Zambrano has been back and worth between the starting rotation and being a reliever. He had been Chicago's ace for the past few seasons, and was rewarded with a five-year/$91.5 million extension in August 2007. 

This season, in twenty-two appearances with the Cubs, nine of which he started, Zambrano has gone 3-6 with a 5.66 ERA. Upon his return to Chicago, he will return to the bullpen as a reliever. If he has any more outbursts during the season, I would expect the Cubs to suspend him for the remainder of the year. 

Unfortunately for Chicago, getting rid of Zambrano will be difficult. His extension included a full no trade clause, meaning he has to approve any move they attempt to make to rid themselves of the troubled star. He is also still owed $35.875 million on the remainder of his deal. If you're a Cubs fan, be prepared to deal with the high tempered pitcher for at least two more seasons.