Cubs' Zambrano put on disqualified list

ATLANTA, Aug. 13 (UPI) -- The Chicago Cubs Saturday placed Carlos Zambrano on the disqualified list after the pitcher left the team following a rough outing and an ejection.

Zambrano, 30, was rocked for five home runs by the Atlanta Braves in Friday's 10-4 loss and was ejected after hitting the Braves' Dan Uggla with a pitch and throwing inside to Chipper Jones.

The Cubs said Zambrano was disqualified without pay and will remain on the DQ list for 30 days, during which he is not permitted to have any contact with the team.

Fox Sports reported the MLB players' union could appeal the decision.

Zambrano apparently cleaned out his locker after the ejection and left Turner Field without talking to his teammates, indicating to clubhouse personnel he was retiring.

"His locker is empty," Manager Mike Quade told reporters after the game. "I don't know where he is at. He walked out on 24 guys that are battling their [butts] off for him."

"I guess we'll see," said Marlon Byrd. "If he doesn't show up, we might not see him again."

The Chicago Tribune reported Saturday General Manager Jim Hendry sounded like he would call Zambrano's retirement bluff.

"We will respect his wishes and honor them and move forward," the GM said.

The Venezuelan native is 125-81 with a 3.60 ERA for his major league career, spent entirely with the Cubs. He threw a no-hitter in 2008.

He has one year remaining on a five-year, $91.5 million contract, MLB.com reported.

The Cubs are floundering in fifth place in the National League Central with a 51-68 record but have won seven of their last 10.