Javier Assad's role versatility has been invaluable for the Cubs

Chicago Cubs pitcher Javier Assad (72) IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect

Javier Assad's role versatility has been invaluable for the Cubs

By Andrew Wright | Last updated Aug 19, 2026 1:18 PM ET

The Chicago Cubs are loaded with starting pitching depth at both the major league level and at Triple-A Iowa.

The surplus of depth has led to frequent roster moves and role changes that have often affected no one player more than right-hander Javier Assad.

This season has seen Assad bounce between the rotation, bullpen, and even Triple-A, but despite all of that, he keeps finding success when his number is called, and that continued in Tuesday's 4-3 win against the Chicago White Sox.

Javier Assad saved the Cubs again on Tuesday

Assad was brought into Tuesday's game with one out in the top of the fifth inning after starter Kevin Gausman left with a left-hand cramp.

It is the third time this season that Assad has been forced to enter a game with no bullpen preparation. Despite that, he turned in another excellent outing, just two days after being optioned to Triple-A Iowa for the second time this season.

Assad tossed three scoreless innings, allowing just two hits and striking out two batters. He kept his team in the game, and he was extremely fired up when he departed with one out in the eighth inning.

Fire ‘em up, Javy pic.twitter.com/Ud7X35QZSL
— Marquee Sports Network (@WatchMarquee) August 19, 2026

There should be no more role changes or demotions for Javier Assad

Assad has allowed just six runs in 31 2/3 innings since July 1st, good for an ERA of 1.71 in that span. In that stretch, Chicago has lost just one of the nine games he appeared in, and that was an extra-innings loss in a game he tossed just one inning.

Even more impressive, the Cubs are 10-1 when Assad starts a game this season and 18-4 overall when he pitches in any capacity. Time and time again, Assad has proved that he belongs in the starting rotation on the major league roster.

Who would he replace in the rotation?

A prolonged injury for Gausman may force Assad back into the rotation, but if that doesn't happen, someone should have their role changed to allow Assad to pitch every fifth day.

There is an open spot in the Cubs rotation after right-hander Edward Cabrera hit the injured list with a blister. Chicago will likely be choosing between Assad and left-hander David Peterson, each of whom has thrown the ball well this season.

Assad has the edge over Peterson in the ERA department not only this season but also in each of their careers. Assad has posted a 3.70 ERA in 64 career starts compared to Peterson's 4.31 ERA in 121 starts.

All the numbers point toward Assad being the No. 5 man in the rotation for the remainder of the season and that decision will be made evident when that spot in the Chicago rotation comes back around on Saturday.

Andrew Wright

Andrew "Dew" Wright graduated from Charleston Southern University with a degree in Communication Studies. He is a lifelong Chicago Cubs and Washington Commanders fan.

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