White Sox 6, Cubs 0

Hero: Bob Howry worked a 1-2-3 bottom of the seventh and has allowed just one earned run in 11 innings since signing with the Cubs on May 21.

Goat: Carlos Zambrano (3-6) had a meltdown for the ages and was removed after surrendering four runs on four hits in the first inning - the shortest start of his career. Zambrano, who threw just 21 pitches in what may have been his final Cubs appearance, was suspended indefinitely by general manager Jim Hendry after the game.

"It's something that can't be tolerated," Lou Piniella said.

Key Play: Carlos Quentin's three-run homer off Big Z provided White Sox starter Jake Peavy (7-5) with more than enough support.

Comment: The Cubs managed just three hits and were shut out for the third time in their last six games. With the exception of their 12-run outburst Sunday, the Cubs are averaging just 0.8 runs per game since last Saturday.

Next: The Cubs (32-41) will try to avoid falling a season-high 10 games under .500 while also attempting to prevent the red-hot White Sox (38-34) from winning their 11th straight and clinching the BP Crosstown Cup on Saturday (Fox, 6:10 p.m.).

With their bullpen stretched thin because of Thursday's 13-inning game and Zambrano's short outing Friday, the Cubs are badly in need of a long outing from Saturday's starter Carlos Silva (8-2, 3.01 ERA). Silva has lost his last two starts, including against the White Sox on June 12, but is 4-0 with a 3.07 ERA in road games this season.

The Sox will counter with veteran right-hander Freddy Garcia (8-3, 4.85 ERA).