5/28 Zambrano update

Carlos Zambrano was able to take grounders at shortstop on Friday, one day after being hospitalized because of pain in his lower right side. Zambrano had “appendicitis symptoms” which he felt prior to Thursday’s game, and was taken to Northwestern Memorial Hospital for tests. The right-hander, who will return to the rotation this week, said he ate something that didn’t agree with him. He was available out of the bullpen Friday for the first game of the Cubs’ series against the Cardinals.

“I’m ready,” Zambrano said. “I’m ready to pitch against St. Louis in the eighth.”

The grounders at short were done just for fun during batting practice. Zambrano also took his turn in the cage to hit with the other Cubs starters. He was to have a side session on Saturday as his final tuneup before he rejoins the rotation, which is expected to happen in the Cubs’ upcoming series against the Pirates, Monday through Wednesday.

– Carrie Muskat