Breaking News: Miami Marlins Score Carlos Zambrano in Trade with Chicago Cubs

The Miami Marlins are clearly not done yet shopping for big-name stars, as former all-star pitching-ace Carlos Zambrano will be heading to South Florida, according to an Associated Press report.

Zambrano, 30, will get a much needed fresh start in Miami after a tough 2011 campaign that saw the once-dominant pitcher go 9-7 with a 4.82 ERA. The Chicago Cubs grew impatient of their all-star pitcher after Zambrano had several meltdowns both on the mound and in the dugout. 

However, the new start may benefit Miami greatly if Zambrano can return to his form once again.

Though the trade is not yet official because both teams have not commented on the matter, a person close with the negotiations said that the deal is pending physicals and approval by Major League Baseball. 

In return, Chicago will not only chew up roughly $15-16 million of the $18 million Zambrano is due this year, but they will also receive starting pitcher Chris Volstad from Miami. Volstad went 5-13 with a 4.89 ERA and has allowed 69 home runs in three years, which could be trouble at Wrigley Field. For Miami, Zambrano comes as a major gamble, given his recent tirade-history and struggles on the field. 

Zambrano will be the fourth major star that Miami has added this offseason, along with closer Heath Bell, shortstop Jose Reyes and starting pitcher Mark Buehrle. 

Peragine's Take

Who said Miami was done shopping? Clearly, they are not done. 

This is a risky move on Miami's part, given Zambrano's past struggles and breakdowns. However, he is still just 30 years of age, and a fresh start may be all that is needed for him to return to CY Young form once again. 

For Chicago, they rid themselves of Zambrano, but in return, the Cubs get a pitcher in Volstad who hasn't done much and has allowed plenty of home runs in the past few years.  

The NL East is shaping up to be baseball's best.