Abbatacola: Astros Rally Against Marmol
By Matt Abbatacola
CHICAGO (CBS) The Cubs closer entered the game in the ninth with a 2-run lead and was removed after retiring one batter - giving up six runs on five hits. It was the worst outing his career.
After the game, starter, Carlos Zambrano said, "it happens to the best of the best" when asked about his teammate. Big Z had the best outing of his season going eight innings allowing one run and striking out seven. Zambrano showed some emotion as he struck out in the fifth with his team down one and a runner at third. Before he walked out of the batters box, Zambrano broke his bat over his leg. It didn't break to his liking on first contact, so he took a second shot over his leg before the bat shattered all over the field.
The Cubs took a brief lead in the eighth with run scoring doubles by Darwin Barney and Aramis Ramirez.
Mike Quade was asked to evaluate his team and compare where they have come since they broke camp in Arizona at the end of March to where they are now. "I'm not even sure I know who this team is yet", answered the skipper.
This team is 23-30 heading into June. They haven't won three games in a row yet this season. Three starting pitchers and five position players including three everyday starters have spent time on the DL.
Some Cubs' fans wanted this team to go young this year ... they may get their wish by the middle of June.
Injury note : Matt Garza will throw a side-session on Wednesday and a second session is planned for the weekend in St. Louis which means he will not be ready to get back to the rotation until the Cincinnati series which begins on Monday the 6th. That is if everything goes as planned...
