Zambrano extends contract deadline

Pitcher Carlos Zambrano extended his deadline to reach a contract extension with the Chicago Cubs beyond opening day, a sign the sides are nearing agreement.

Zambrano and the Cubs are thought to be discussing a five-year deal worth about $80 million. He had said he didn't want to negotiate past Monday's opener against the Reds.

"Our discussions have progressed to a point where we are extending the deadline for an indefinite period of time," Zambrano's agent, Barry Praver, said Sunday.

At $80 million, Zambrano would be getting the largest deal for a pitcher who wasn't eligible for free agency. The current high is held by Pedro Martinez, who received $75 million, six-year contract from the Boston Red Sox that ran from 1998-2003. Last August, Roy Oswalt agreed to a $73 million, five-year extension with the Houston Astros.

Zambrano and the Cubs agreed in February to a $12.4 million, one-year contract. He currently is eligible to become a free agent after the season.