What is that, 7 down, 18 to go?
Cubs starting pitcher Carlos Zambrano had to leave Sunday’s game against the Florida Marlins in the fifth inning after straining his left hamstring as he ran and beat out a bunt single.
Zambrano tried to remain in the game, but as the next batter, Alfonso Soriano, was at bat, manager Lou Piniella came out of the dugout a second time and made a change.
The score was tied at 2-2 when Zambrano left the game. He pitched five innings, giving up two runs on four hits with a walk and three strikeouts. But he stood to get a victory after the Cubs loaded the bases after he left and first baseman Derrek Lee hit a grand slam home run off Ricky Nolasco for a 6-2 lead.
Zambrano was diagnosed with a left hamstring strain. His status for his next start will be determined. CHICAGO SUN-TIMES.
We’ll update you as soon as more info is available. If Zambrano has to miss a few starts, the Cubs would be looking at guys like Mitch Atkins, Jose Ascanio or maybe even Jeff Samardzija to fill in.