Chicago Cubs Place Carlos Zambrano On The DL

The Chicago Cubs can not catch a break this season. The Cubs were anticipating a healthy roster once Kerry Wood, Darwin Barney, and Marlon Byrd returned from the disabled list. But the Cubs will once again have to wait at least another two weeks before they field a roster that resembles the one they had on Opening Day. Even though relief pitcher Kerry Wood is returning from the disabled list today, it will be at the cost of starting pitcher Carlos Zambrano.

Zambrano was placed on the disabled list today after being pulled in the second-inning from yesterday’ s game. Zambrano was suffering from back soreness, and received an epidural today to alleviate some of the pain. Though, that was not enough for Zambrano to avoid a trip to the disabled list. With the All-Star break one week away, the Cubs opted to play it safe with their starting pitcher. Zambrano will not return until after the All-Star break.

James Russell, Ramon Ortiz, and Marcos Mateo are all possible options to replace Zambrano in the rotation. Zambrano is only expected to miss one start.