Cubs activate Zambrano from DL By SPORTS NETWORK

Carlos Zambrano (Reuters file photo)

CHICAGO - The Chicago Cubs activated pitcher Carlos Zambrano from the 15-day disabled list in order to start Saturday's contest against the Florida Marlins.

He was placed on the disabled list July 1 because of lower back soreness.

The right-hander suffered the loss Saturday, allowing seven hits and eight runs in 4 2/3 innings. Zambrano fell to 6-5 with a 4.78 ERA in 19 starts this season.

To make room on the roster, Chicago optioned pitcher Chris Carpenter to Triple-A Iowa.

Carpenter has allowed three runs in 9 2/3 innings of relief for the Cubs this year.