Cubs Injury Update: Javier Assad dominates, Jameson Taillon bullpen, and Porter Hodge

Javier Assad took a major step toward returning this past week as he completed his first start in the Arizona Complex League. Assad pitched three scoreless innings while striking out six. It would seem that the next step for Assad is to be assigned to an affiliate for a minor-league rehab assignment. The expectation is that Assad's minor-league rehab assignment will start with the Iowa Cubs next week.

Assad's role, as it pertains to the 2025 Cubs, will likely be determined by the moves the Cubs make at the trade deadline. The expectation is that the Cubs will add a starting pitcher capable of starting a playoff game, and there's also an uptick in rumors connecting the team to available relief pitchers on the trade market.

It would seem, if Assad is on the Major League roster to end the season, it will be as a swingman in the bullpen. Otherwise, considering he has options left, Assad may serve as insurance while pitching with the Iowa Cubs.

Cubs Injury Update: Jameson Taillon makes first step toward return

Jameson Taillion threw a bullpen on Friday and is expected to have another bullpen session next week while the Chicago Cubs are playing the Milwaukee Brewers. Assuming there's no setback for Taillon, he will begin a minor-league rehab assignment with the Iowa Cubs by the end of next week.

Taillon's return will likely be around the middle of August. That should be around the same time that Assad will also be ready for a potential return to the Major League roster.

Initially, it would seem that the starter the Cubs acquire at the deadline will slot into Taillon's spot in the rotation. The Cubs have been using a bullpen game in Taillon's place, and it hasn't exactly worked out. Once Taillon returns, Colin Rea moving back to the bullpen feels like the logical move.

Cubs Injury Update: Porter Hodge set to begin minor-league rehab appearance

Porter Hodge will start a minor-league rehab appearance with the Iowa Cubs on Saturday. Initially, on the ascent toward being the Cubs' closer this season, injuries have plagued Hodge since the middle of May. A 6-run outing earlier this month raised some red flags for Hodge, leading to a return to the IL.

Much like Assad's return can't be factored into the Cubs' equation during the closing months of the season, anything the team gets from Hodge should be viewed as a bonus. Likely one of the primary reasons why the Cubs are in the market for a high-leverage relief pitcher ahead of the trade deadline.

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