Carlos Zambrano is just 1-2 so far in 2010, with a 7.45 ERA in four starts, and an ERA+ of 65. In short, he is struggling. In his four starts, he's lasted 7.0, 6.0, 5.0 and 1.1 inning before surrendering the ball to the Cubs bullpen. Ah, yes: the Cubs bullpen.
Cubs’ Carlos Zambrano Moving To The Bullpen
The bunch of relievers in Wrigleyville are carrying around a 1-6 record in 2010, as well as a 6.15 ERA (worst in the N.L.), and they’ve allowed 41 hits in their 40 innings pitched. In short, the bullpen is struggling. The obvious solution to this, according to a couple of reporters, is to take Zambrano out of the rotation and add him -- a pitcher who made at least 28 starts every year since 2002 -- to the Cubs bullpen. The move was announced by manager Lou Pinella Wednesday afternoon.
Zambrano will serve as the main set-up man for closer Carlos Marmol. There is no word yet on whether or not this will be a permanent adjustment.
"This makes all the since in the world," Piniella said. "This is an area that needs some attention. (Ted Lilly's return from the DL) gives us an opportunity to do it."
Early reaction at Bleed Cubbie Blue is somewhat mixed -- Al Yellon says that he’s “all for it,” but many fans in the comments aren’t quite so supportive.
14 Games in and we have already given up……
Zambrano will officially make the move to the pen on Friday.
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