Javier Assad
Breakdown
Performance
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August 5, 2026
Tosses 5.2 innings in no-decision
Assad didn't factor into the decision Tuesday against the Dodgers, allowing one run on four hits and two walks while striking out three over 5.2 innings.
Analysis
Assad fared well opposite Tarik Skubal, and he ended just one out shy of recording what would've been his first quality start since mid-June. It remains to be seen if Assad will stay in the rotation following the deadline acquisitions of Kevin Gausman and Clay Holmes, but as of now, he's lined up for Tuesday on the road against the Nationals. Assad owns a 3.58 ERA across 19 appearances (10 starts) and 75.1 innings with the Cubs in 2026. This is the third time in four seasons he has made at least 10 starts.
August 3, 2026
Awarded start Tuesday
Assad is slated to start Tuesday's game against the Dodgers at Wrigley Field, Jesse Rogers of ESPN.com reports.
Analysis
Assad earned himself a second straight turn through the rotation after he struck out six and allowed one earned run on six hits and two walks in 4.1 innings in a start against the Cardinals on Thursday. The right-hander could have a longer leash Tuesday after tossing just 83 pitches versus St. Louis, but he'll also get a tougher matchup, taking on a Dodgers offense that has posted an MLB-best 113 wRC+ on the season. In addition to facing off against a tough lineup, Assad's chances of earning a win will be further dimmed by going head-to-head with two-time Cy Young Award winner Tarik Skubal, who will make his Dodgers debut Tuesday.
July 31, 2026
No-decision vs. St. Louis
Assad did not factor into the decision for Thursday's game against the Cardinals, allowing one run on six hits and two walks while striking out six across 4.1 innings.
Analysis
Assad worked out of the bullpen in both of his previous two outings, but he was thrust back into a starting role Thursday after Shota Imanaga's scheduled start was pushed back to Friday against the Yankees. Assad allowed at least two baserunners in three of the five innings he pitched but limited the damage to just one run. Given that Edward Cabrera (hamstring) and Ben Brown (hand) are both still on the 15-day IL, Assad could make at least one more turn in the rotation, which would line him up to face the Dodgers at home next week.