Cubs pitcher Carlos Zambrano threw a simulated game today to prepare for a possible return to the starting rotation following a short and ill-fated stint in the bullpen. The simulated game didn’t go well, however, as the fiery Zambrano was ejected after just a few innings for arguing balls and strikes with pitching coach Larry Rothschild who was serving as umpire.
“That [several expletives deleted] was squeezing the plate,” said Zambrano, who had maintained a relatively even keel so far this season despite an ever-changing role with the team. “How am I supposed to become a starter again when I can’t get calls in games that don’t matter?”
Rothschild appeared perplexed by the one-time ace’s reaction.
“With the way Carlos has been playing this season, he should be happy we’re giving him any work, even if it’s in a fake game,” said Rothschild. “Any more outbusts like that and he’ll be lucky if I even do a towel drill with him again.”
