Cubs RHP Javier Assad to make rehab start on Wednesday

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This article was published 26/07/2025 (405 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

CHICAGO (AP) — Javier Assad thinks he can help the Chicago Cubs in the last part of the season. So does manager Craig Counsell.

Assad is slated to make a rehab start for Triple-A Iowa on Wednesday. The right-hander is coming back from a troublesome left oblique injury.

“Just trying to get back to my 100 percent,” Assad said Saturday through a translator.

Assad, who turns 28 on Wednesday, got hurt during spring training. He re-aggravated the injury during a rehab start with Iowa in April.

He tossed three scoreless innings in a rehab appearance in the Arizona Complex League on Thursday.

“It’s been a tough season for Javy in terms of, you know, he was really injured most of spring training and his entirety of the season,” Counsell said. “But I think the thing to remember is that we have important baseball left and he can be a contributor.

“He’s on a good track right now, and I know it’s good to be around the team again and get you feeling like you’re close.”

Assad’s return could provide a lift for a depleted Cubs rotation. Jameson Taillon also is on his way back after being sidelined by a right calf strain. Justin Steele made four starts before he had season-ending elbow surgery.

The Cubs improved to 61-43 with Saturday night’s 6-1 victory against the White Sox at Rate Field. They are tied with Milwaukee for the NL Central lead.

Assad was a key member of the team’s rotation in 2024, going 7-6 with a 3.73 ERA in a career-high 29 starts and 147 innings.

He is 14-11 with a 3.40 ERA in 70 games over three seasons, including 23 relief appearances. He could work out of Chicago’s bullpen at some point if he stays healthy.

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“I think we’re going to prepare him as a starter, but I think, yes, I think, you know, by mid-August … you certainly have to consider everything when you get to mid-August,” Counsell said.

Assad said it was “really sad” when he re-aggravated the injury in April, but he is focused now on what he needs to do to return.

“Once I get back, just help in whatever capacity the team needs,” he said.

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AP MLB: https://apnews.com/hub/mlb