Just when I thought there wouldn’t be any interesting Cubs’ news for a few days, Big Z made some. According to Big Z himself, you can end any trade speculation this winter, he’s staying until the Cubs win a World Series
From ESPN Chicago
“Because I’m on a mission, and until I accomplish this mission, I’ll be right here,” Zambrano told ESPNChicago.com on Friday.
The mission Zambrano speaks of has kept Cubs owners and managers up at night for 102 years.
“Of course, to win the World Series here,” Zambrano said. “It’s not just me, I have confidence in my teammates that we can do it.”
Based on what the roster might look like next season, Z might be here quite a bit longer, but his loyalty to the Cubs cannot be questioned. His ability to pitch 200 innings next season is critical to the Cubs 2011 success, his “new Z” numbers (2007-2010) will be just fine over the course of the entire season.
It is actually rather remarkable what Z has pulled off since his return from anger management. He’s adjusted brilliantly to diminished stuff, using his breaking pitches more and his sinker less. It has resulted in a lot of walks, but also a lot of outs, and he hasn’t lost since he’s been back.
I’m sure there will be many Cubs’ fans who aren’t happy that Zambrano is going to stay, but it really is a good thing. His production is going to be nearly impossible for the Cubs to replace, even if it isn’t quite worth $18 million a year. The Cubs can’t win a World Series next season without getting typical Zambrano production, it’s nice to know he’ll be around to try and provide it.
For More Great Chicago Sports Content
Follow us on Twitter at @chicitysports23 for more great content. We appreciate you taking time to read our articles. To interact more with our community and keep up to date on the latest in Chicago sports news, JOIN OUR FREE FACEBOOK GROUP by CLICKING HERE
1 Comment
The Cubs will never win a World Series with Zambrano on the team. No matter what he says now, with him it’s always about himself not the team. If he’s with the Cubs in 2011 just give him some time before he reverts to the same old “Z” and has more of his “episodes”.