Chicago Cubs Pitcher Carlos Zambrano has his “ways”, but it can’t be denied that he has been a very serviceable player for the Chicago Cubs for the past decade. In addition to being a three-time All-Star, Zambrano is also a talented switch hitter as he has already hit 23 home runs under his belt — most by a Cubs pitcher.
However, 2011 hasn’t been his year as his ERA is nearing 5 (4.82) and his record is hovering around the .500 mark (9-7). Last night marked the latest unfortunate chapter for Zambrano this year as he was absolutely battered by the Atlanta Braves. In a 10-4 loss yesterday to Atlanta, Zambrano gave up five home runs — including two to Braves’ second baseman Dan Uggla (by the way, Uggla’s first HR extended his hitting streak to 32, toppling the previous mark held by Rico Carty for most by an Atlanta Brave). While Uggla and the Braves celebrated their win on the night former manager Bobby Cox was having his number retired, Zambrano was busy creating a messy situation for himself with the Cubs.
After giving up back-to-back home runs to Dan Uggla and Freddie Freeman, Zambrano threw two inside pitches to the next hitter Chipper Jones, prompting his dismissal from the game.
Zambrano would go on to pack his things and walk out on his teammates, putting manager Mike Quade and the Cubs organization in an uncomfortable situation.
“He didn’t have it tonight,” manager Mike Quade said. “I’m really disappointed. His locker is empty. I don’t know where he’s at. He walked out on 24 guys that are battling their (butts) off for him. I don’t know where he’s gone or what he’s doing. I heard he has retired, or talking about retiring.
“I can’t have a guy walking out on 24 guys, that’s for damn sure.”
After the game, the Cubs would put Zambrano on the disqualified list for 30 days. To no one’s surprise, he retaliated with threats of retirement. This has happened before — Cubs fans have put up with Zambrano’s childish antics and meltdowns before.
Here’s Zambrano throwing a fit last year …
There’s always a limit — regardless of how talented the player is. If this isn’t the last game Zambrano pitches for the Cubs, consider me shocked.