With Zambrano at the mound, everything is A-okay

The Cubs 9-2 win last night against the Indians in the third game of the interleague series demonstrated why Carlos Zambrano is so valuable to his team. He doesn't necessarily have to rack up lofty strikeout totals to be effective. Going the distance without giving up many runs is his strong point. That's exactly what Carlos did Wednesday night in a shortened game due to rain in Cleveland, pitching 6 innings while yielding 2 on 6 hits and 3 walks.

It's good to see Henry Blanco making the most of his usual rare playing time. He got 2 hits (double, single) and a RBI. This kind of production is welcomed and definitely needed. The lineup did their job. Everyone got at least one hit except Phil Nevin, compiling 13 total hits. Aramis Ramirez showed signs of breaking out of his hitting funk, going 2-for-3 with 2 RBIs. Neifi was the player of the game though, going 3-for-4 with 2 doubles, a single, and 2 RBIs.

Unfortunately, the Cubs organization has to bare more bad news as Kerry Wood may be out for the rest of the season. This can't be a more crushing blow if this is the case. Wood was checked out by doctors, but didn't appear to have any further problems with his throwing arm. Yet in a simulated game he only able to reach around 70 pitches and then has nothing left in the tank, having something to do with strength in the arm.

Cubs fans can't really cry over this despairing announcement because we all knew it was bound to happen again sooner or later. I think it's best if the Cubs just let Kerry Wood go, trade him for the best possible talent available. This may be difficult since Wood is an injury prone pitcher. Few teams may want to take a risk signing him. With that said, there is good news, believe it or not. Derek Lee is expected to return soon, projected to make a short minor league rehab stint. Dusty and the organizations feels Lee needs time to see and hit various pitching before coming back to the lineup. The Cubs can do this, but shouldn't put him in a position to get hurt again. That's the last thing this team needs. Until then, I wish a full speedy recovery Derek, looking forward to his return.