Carlos Zambrano: Thanks, But No Thanks Vol. II

Less than a week ago, I wrote a piece in which I referred to Carlos Zambrano as "Big Zero" after he failed to look competent against the Washington Nationals. The response to that piece was mixed, as is the general sentiment towards Zambrano in Chicago these days. Statistically, Zambrano is as good as any right handed pitcher in the game for his career. But lately, his injuries and attitude have aggravated many fans. When the Cubs began a home stand with the Nationals, and Zambrano had a poor showing, I was angry. Big game, indeed big money, pitchers need to be their best when the money's on the table. Over the next few weeks, the Cubs are playing a mediocre schedule with their playoff hopes on the line. Zambrano needs to lead. He didn't against Washington, and he was worse against the Mets on Sunday. And, if the quick trigger manager Lou Piniella showed pulling Zambrano Sunday is any indication, management might be tiring of Zambrano as much as many fans are righ...