Surprise: You're starting

Sean Gallagher learned he would be the Cubs' starting pitcher 45 minutes prior to Sunday's game against Arizona.

The rookie may have a bit more time to prepare for his next start: five days.

Cubs manager Lou Piniella said Gallagher will probably get the starting nod next weekend against Pittsburgh at Wrigley Field based on his performance in Sunday's 6-4 victory, a decision that would send Jon Lieber back to the bullpen.

Gallagher was named the starting pitcher Sunday after Piniella opted not to throw scheduled ace Carlos Zambrano in the damp, windy, 46-degree conditions.

The rookie responded by tossing 4½ innings of 5-hit ball with 6 strikeouts and 3 walks, one of which was intentional.

Gallagher gave up 4 earned runs, two of which scored as a result of reliever Chad Fox's 2 bases-loaded walks after Gallagher had departed in the fifth inning.

"I was kind of surprised coming to the field and getting told I was getting a start," said Gallagher, who was selected by the Cubs in the fifth round of the 2006 draft. "I just wanted to go out there and keep us in the game no matter what."

Piniella and staff liked what they saw from Gallagher, who prior to his May 3 recall from Iowa had gone 2-2 with a 3.10 in 5 starts.

"He responded and pitched well," Piniella said. "We thought he'd throw 75 to 80 pitches and that's about what he gave us and we were pleased with it.

"We've got a decision to make now as far as what we do this week with our pitching, but I don't see any reason why we can't pitch Gallagher against Pittsburgh next weekend on his regular turn."

Gallagher said his aim is to be a starting pitcher in the major leagues, but he walked the company line to which most rookies adhere.

"Yes, I would like to be a starter but whatever this team wants me to do," he said. "I'll do whatever helps us in the long run or whatever helps us win ballgames."