Cubs plan to shop Carlos Zambrano this offseason

Paul Sullivan of the Chicago Tribune is reporting that the Cubs will shop pitcher Carlos Zambrano this offseason. Zambrano, known for being critical of the media in Chicago, said Monday he would be open to a trade.

"Maybe if I go to a different city next year, if I get traded, I can do what I want," Zambrano told the Tribune.

Zambrano, who has the right to veto any trade, later said he was kidding. However, sources believe that Zambrano would waive his no-trade clause to go to the right team. In 24 starts this season, Zambrano has posted a 3.77 ERA in 143.1 innings.

I'm guessing Zambrano would prefer to stay in the National League so he can continue hitting. He is a .236 career hitter with 20 home runs. 

So are there any takers for Zambrano? 

The Dodgers could potentially be buyers, but the Cubs' asking price would have to be reasonable because the Dodgers dipped into their farm system a little bit in midseason trades.

With Rich Harden likely on his way out the door, and Ted Lilly a free agent after the 2010 season, I would be surprised to see the Cubs move Zambrano.