I think trading Zambrano would lead to disaster next season, really this year the Cubs have been hurt by the loss of Ramirez, having Kevin Gregg on the roster, Mike Fontenot sucking, and Zambrano being hurt. I do not think a major message needs to be sent by trading Zambrano, nor do I think the Cubs would get the proper value in return. Keep Z, come back next year with minor tweaks and upgrades and hope that some players on the team come back to their season averages and others stay healthy(er). This team cannot compete with the Cardinals pitching if they trade Z, if they trade Z the Cubs may as well go on a fire sale and trade Ramirez, try to trade Lee, Fukudome, Bradley and build from there. Do not trade a key piece of this team if you expect to compete next season.