News not so bad concerning Zambrano
Cubs fans can apparently breathe easier now.
An MRI of pitcher Carlos Zambrano's shoulder area Thursday morning revealed the big right-hander has some inflammation and rotator cuff tendinitis and may be back pitching as soon as the upcoming series in Houston.
"It's a relief knowing Z doesn't have anything more than what we thought," said general manager Jim Hendry. "It confirmed (team orthopedist) Dr. (Stephen) Gryzlo's evaluation."
Zambrano received an anti-inflammatory injection Thursday and is scheduled to be with the team in Cincinnati when it begins its series with the Reds on Friday.
Hendry said if things go according to plans, Zambrano will begin throwing in St. Louis and may be able to start a game by the tail end of the Houston series.
Zambrano's condition, combined with news of Rich Harden's newly revealed "discomfort," makes for a tough start to September for the struggling Cubs.
"There's no good time (for missed starts)," Hendry said. "But (Ryan) Dempster's had a great year, (Ted) Lilly's been tough - you deal with it."