Zambrano content with expected 1-year contract

After resistance and strong comments by Carlos Zambrano, the Cubs may have found a deal which makes him happy. The Cubs ace earlier stated that if the organization didn't sign him to multi-year deal he'd leave. Apparently, he's changed his mind and believes arbitration can be avoided. In order to do that the Cubs have to come an agreement on salary figures after 2007. Carlos wants $15.5 million while the Cubs have offered $11 million. A long-term package similar to what the Giants gave Barry Zito is what the young power pitcher requests. I'm not sure how the Cubs will manage such a high payroll after signing Soriano, Lilly, and Prior to a new contract.

I don't blame Zambrano for holding out for a long-term deal. He's going to retrieve top dollar on the market when or if he becomes a free agent. The Cubs would be dumb not to sign him to at least a 4-year contract after 2007. Moving some guys later in the season in trades can help free up money. If Mark Derosa doesn't produce in the first 3 months I say get rid of him. The same goes for Cliff Floyd. The Cubs main focus still should be putting together the best offensive lineup possible. Barring that no further freak accident or injuries occur to Kerry Wood like slipping in a bathtub (happened to Ken Griffey Jr. once) and the rest of the rotation can put in a good 25-30 starts each pitching shouldn't be a problem.

At 25, Zambrano will have to be the top leader on this club. Carrying the torch so to speak will be expected of him. Such masterful performances as those he completed last season along with his animated emotion on the field can ignite this new Cubs team. If the Cubs have one good luck charm among the historic disasters they've suffered, it has to be Carlos Zambrano. Who knows, Pinella might even need to come off the bench as a pinch hitter in clutch situations. The guy has already shown he hit the long ball!