What Can The Cubs Do With Zambrano?

Chicago Cubs starting pitcher Carlos Zambrano had a rough Friday night outing against the Braves in Atlanta.  He gave up five home runs and then tried to get himself ejected from the game by throwing at Atlanta star Chipper Jones.

Immediately after getting booted, Zambrano went back to the clubhouse, cleaned out his locker and told attendants that he planned to retire. He left Turner Field during the game. 

Saturday, Chicago suspended him for 30 days without pay and are trying to figure out what to do with him moving forward.

The Cubs are meeting with Zambrano's agents, hoping to negotiate a buyout of his contract, which guarantees the pitcher $18 million in 2012. 

Zambrano will probably never pitch for the Cubs again and may have to sign a minimal contract with another club next season, if he wants to remain in baseball. 

Outfielder Alfonso Soriano was one of many Chicago players who thought Zambrano was way over the line. 

"He's been doing a lot of things, not once or twice. He's got to think a little bit more," explained Soriano.  "He's a big man, but mentally, he's weak."    

Zambrano has since filed a grievance with the MLB Players Association and has publicly apologized for his actions. But, in the Cubs' eyes, it's probably too late.

It would be a dream match-up if Zambrano signed with the cross-town White Sox to trade volatile eruptions with manager Ozzie Guillen, who has come out in support of the hot tempered pitcher.