CHICAGO — Carlos Zambrano went from a no-hitter to an early exit, so the Chicago Cubs will have to wait another day to clinch the National League Central.

Adam Kennedy capped a five-run first with a grand slam, and the St. Louis Cardinals beat the Cubs 12-6 today, slowing their march toward a second straight division title.

Chicago's magic number for clinching was at two over Milwaukee when the day began, but any chance at wrapping it up quickly disappeared.

After pitching the Cubs' first no-hitter in 36 years Sunday against Houston in Milwaukee, Zambrano allowed eight runs and six hits in just 1 2-3 innings. His shortest outing in two years ended with an odd exchange with manager Lou Piniella.

Zambrano (14-6) tried to come off the mound early when Piniella yanked him. The manager wouldn't allow it, and Zambrano gestured toward him before handing over the ball on the way to the dugout.