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Zambrano, Cubs try to salvage series finale vs. Astros

Aug 8, 2007 - 2:52 PM Chicago Cubs (58-54) at Houston (50-63) 8:05 pm EDT

HOUSTON (Ticker) -- The Chicago Cubs turn to ace Carlos Zambrano to stop their current struggles.

Zambrano will start when the Cubs try to salvage the final game of a three-game series with the Houston Astros on Wednesday.

Chicago has lost three straight games, including two in a row to Houston, to remain one game behind the Milwaukee Brewers in the National League Central. The Cubs dropped a 7-3 decision on Tuesday and will need to find a way to stay competitive without the services of All-Star outfielder Alfonso Soriano.

Tuesday's loss was the second straight game Chicago had to play without the left fielder, who tore his right quadriceps in Sunday's loss to the New York Mets. Soriano was placed on the 15-day disabled list on Monday.

Zambrano (14-7, 3.42) takes the mound looking to become the major leagues' first 15-game winner.

The big righthander, who is 4-0 in his last five starts, has also been excellent in his recent outings vs. the Astros. Zambrano has won four straight starts against Houston and is 5-0 with a 0.51 ERA in his last seven games against them. The 26-year-old is 10-5 in 21 career appearances against the Astros.

Zambrano has thrown 21 consecutive scoreless innings at Minute Maid Park and is 3-0 with a 0.96 ERA in his last five outings here.

The Astros counter with All-Star Roy Oswalt (11-6, 3.55), who has won his last three starts. The righthander, who is 7-1 at home this season, was rocked the last time he faced the Cubs, giving up nine runs and 10 hits in 5 1/3 innings of a 9-3 loss on July 14.

Oswalt has lost his last four starts vs. Chicago and is 10-10 overall with a 4.14 ERA.