Zambrano Returns

By on May 18, 2013

Carlos Zambrano on the hill for the first time since the World Baseball Classic (EDDIE MICHELS PHOTO)

CLEARWATER, FLA.—Signed to a minor league contract by the Philadelphia Phillies earlier this week RHP Carlos Zambrano took the mound for the first time on Saturday.

    He faced a Toronto Blue Jays extended spring squad allowing just one hit over two extended innings which saw him face six batters in each.

    “Everything was good everything was working my way,” said Zambrano, “Thank God, everything is going good.  I’m ready for this new opportunity.”

    Zambrano threw 31 of his 44-pitches for strikes allowing just the one hit while striking out five and allowing just two fly balls to the outfield.

    Posting an overall major league record of 132-91 with a 3.66 era, mostly with the Cubs, Zambrano spent the 2012 season with the Marlins going 7-10 with a 4.49 era.

    After the 2012 season Zambrano played winter ball then in the WBC but hadn’t pitched in a game  since.

Carlos Zambrano works this morning in the bullpen (EDDIE MICHELS PHOTO)

    “I have been working hard at the University of Miami.”  said  Zambrano of his time since the WBC, “I appreciate them for giving me permission to use their faculties to get ready for anything and this is a chance.”

    Zambrano said he was scheduled to pitch again on Thursday but didn’t know if it was extended spring or with Class-A Clearwater.

Zambrano is also known for having a big stick.  He is currently tied for 7th (John Clarkson and Bob Gibson) all-time with 24 home runs by a pitcher.    Zambrano is the active home run leader as a pitcher with twice as many as the second place pitcher Yovani Gallardo who has 12.  Gallardo is currently with the Milwaukee Brewers in his 7th year,the previous six were spent with the Brew Crew as well.

Phillies left-hander John Lannan threw his first bullpen session on Saturday May 18, 2013. On the 15 day DL since April 18, 2013 with a strained quadriceps tendon of his left knee threw a 20-pitch session. “No problems,: said Lannan afterwards, “I will throw another bullpen on Monday.” In three games this season Lannan is 0-1 with a 6.14 ERA. (EDDIE MICHELS/PHOTO)


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