Cubs Place Carlos Zambrano on DL; Activate Kerry Wood
By Editorial Staff
The Chicago Cubs have placed Carlos Zambrano on the disabled list and activated reliever Kerry Wood.
Zambrano hits the DL with lower back soreness a day after leaving his start against the Giants in the second inning. Big Z experienced discomfort before Thursday’s contest and has dealt with similar issues throughout his career.
"“He’s had these problems before” Cubs GM Jim Hendry said. “To rush him out there for one more (start before the All-Star break) … to me made no sense. He certainly wanted to pitch one more time.”"
Chicago will hand the ball to veteran righty Ramon Ortiz to make Zambrano’s next scheduled start.
The Cubs expect to have Zambrano back immediately after the All-Star break. Over his 18 starts this season, the 30 year old has maintained a 3.85 FIP over 112 innings.
Meanwhile, as expected the club activated Wood. They certainly didn’t wish to be trading one pitcher for another on the DL, but the team will welcome Wood back nonetheless. The Cubs’ setup man has been sidelined with a blister on his throwing hand since June 8th.
In 24 innings with Chicago this season, Wood has only allowed 6 earned runs. The right hander’s struck out 21 and has recorded 9 holds for the Cubs.
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