Phillies release Carlos Zambrano

The Philadelphia Phillies have released right-hander Carlos Zambrano, according to a press release from the team. The 32-year old was signed to a minor league deal in May, but never reached his goal of returning to the major leagues.

In seven minor league starts for the Phillies this year, Zambrano posted a 3-0 record with a 2.04 ERA in 35.1 innings of work. He seemed to be on the fast track back to the major leagues before leaving a game on June 28th with shoulder pain, and has been sidelined ever since. The status of his injury is unknown at this time, but he will not be contributing to the Phillies' major league staff at any time this season.

Zambrano drew interest from the Atlantic League's York Revolution and Long Island Ducks before signing with the Phillies, according to sources. He had an agreement in place with Long Island before Philadelphia came calling, and was going to join Dontrelle Willis in the team's rotation. Now that he is available again, interest from Atlantic League teams may pick up soon. Zambrano will likely land a minor league deal in free agency this winter.