5 Chicago Cubs players that helped their case during Spring Training

5 Chicago Cubs that helped their case - 3. Javier Assad

After excelling through the minor league levels last season, inevitably getting called up to the show, Javier Assad posted a 3.11 ERA in 37.2 innings of work. This spring, he impressed Cubs brass while dominating for Team Mexico in the World Baseball Classic. So much so that he was named to the Chicago Cubs opening day roster after being given the nod to the bullpen. In the role, he can come in and be a multi-inning relief pitcher or even spot start for the club when necessary.

Assad is one of many Cub's homegrown prospects that the front office is starting to churn out with a new and improved infrastructure. Assad's improved velocity and adjustments had bode well for him so far, as he has recorded a 2.57 ERA in 7.0 innings during spring training. 2023 will be a massive year for him as he looks to solidify himself as a core piece of the next great Cubs team.