Ex-Twins watch: Carlos Silva (Update)

UPDATE: AP is reporting that Carlos Zambrano — the Cubs $91 million man — is being shifted to the bullpen. That's a surprise.

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Carlos Silva, the former Twins mainstay, makes his third start of the young season for the Cubs today against the Mets.

It's a potentially significant start for the right-hander, who may be pitching for his slot in the rotation even though he's allowed just one earned run in 13 innings. He hasn't walked a man yet this season, which fits his track record, but he's also struck out eight, which is above his norm.

Ted Lilly is to come off the disabled list this weekend. Somebody will have to make room for him, and it's unlikely to be Carlos Zambrano, Ryan Dempster or Randy Wells.

Tom Gorzelanny is the other current starter who could be bounced to the bullpen. He hasn't been quite as effective as Silva, but he's been pretty good himself.

Silva's at risk because of how poorly he pitched with Seattle the last two seasons — a combined ERA of 6.81. Taking him (and his contract) off the Mariners' hands was the price the Cubs paid for unloading Milton Bradley.

Silva is apparently throwing his sinking fastball less, his breaking ball and changeup more often. Getting out of Seattle and into the easier National League has probably helped too.