MESA, Ariz. — Manager Lou Piniella put an end to one of the mini dramas of Cubs camp today, announcing Carlos Zambrano will be his Opening Day starter April 6 in Houston against the Astros.
The top three in Piniella’s rotation is no surprise: Zambrano, Ryan Dempster and Ted Lilly, meaning Lilly will get the start for the Cubs’ home opener April 13 against the Colorado Rockies.
The Opening Day assignment was a battle between Zambrano and Dempster. Piniella and pitching coach Larry Rothschild talked to both players Thursday morning, before Zambrano’s third outing of camp.
Zambrano gets his wish, will start on Opening Day :: CHICAGO SUN-TIMES :: Cubs