Explaining why the Cubs keep sending a successful Javier Assad to Triple-A

The Chicago Cubs understand, perhaps better than any team in Major League Baseball this season, the value of pitching depth (and then more pitching depth). The pitching staff has weathered injury after injury, but has somehow held it together thanks to several guys stepping up - including right-hander Javier Assad.

Assad has always displayed a team-first attitude since making his big-league debut in 2022, regularly flexing between the starting rotation and bullpen - and finding success in a variety of ways. This year, though, he's been a critical piece of the puzzle, making 22 appearances, including 10 starts and finishing six games, pitching to a 3.43 ERA that's right in line with his career mark.

His latest heroic act? Bailing the Cubs out after Edward Cabrera imploded and then left with a blister issue, firing three scoreless innings and setting up Alex Bregman's walk-off single in the bottom of the ninth. His reward? Getting sent back to Triple-A Iowa.

“Look, the way Javy’s pitched definitely doesn’t warrant going to the minor leagues,” Cubs manager Craig Counsell told reporters. “The other decisions mean we lose the pitcher forever.”

Why does Cubs pitcher Javier Assad keep getting optioned to Triple-A?

Cubs fans who've come to deeply appreciate Assad have taken to social media, blasting the team's decision to repeatedly demote the 29-year-old. But there's a logic behind the move. Here's what you need to know.

Unlike most of the pitchers on the Cubs' big-league roster, Assad still has minor league options remaining, which means he can move between Triple-A and Chicago without being placed on waivers (which keeps other teams from being able to claim him). Stashing him at Iowa allows him to stay stretched out and ready and, at this point, it's clear he's the first man up if someone hits the IL.

The only other uninjured relievers on the staff with options remaining are Daniel Palencia (who took Assad's roster spot Friday after coming off the IL), Ryan Zeferjahn (who the Cubs hope can be a late-inning weapon, despite his struggles) and Ryan Rolison. Given Caleb Thielbar's struggles, Chicago can ill-afford to send Rolison down, especially given the season he's having.

We likely haven't seen the last of Assad this year. The Cubs' pitching staff is finally nearing full strength, but having someone with his experience and flexibility will be key as the team looks to finish the 2026 regular season on a high note.

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