Zambrano completes anger management

CHICAGO, July 16 (UPI) -- Pitcher Carlos Zambrano, suspended in June for screaming at another player, is "a ways away" from returning to the rotation, the Chicago Cubs manager says.

Zambrano began rehabilitation as a pitcher Thursday at the Cubs spring training facility in Mesa, Ariz., the Chicago Tribune reported. He has completed anger management therapy.

"We're just going to put him in the bullpen to start with," manager Lou Piniella said. "But look, he's a ways away yet."

Piniella pulled Zambrano on June 25, after he gave up four runs in the first inning against the Cubs' cross-town rivals, the White Sox, and then launched a tirade against Derek Lee. Zambrano was given an indefinite suspension the next day.

General Manager Jim Hendry refused to give any details about a conversation with Zambrano over the weekend or the team's long-term plans for him. Zambrano is expected to spend some time with a minor league affiliate.

"Obviously, he's paid a dear price for his actions that day," Hendry said. "And hopefully he'll act accordingly from now on."