Cubs Name 'Likely' Wednesday Starter

Chicago Cubs pitcher Javier Assad will “more than likely” take Wednesday’s start against the Chicago White Sox, according to the Chicago Tribune.

The spot opened up after injured Cubs starter Marcus Stroman came up with right rib discomfort on Tuesday. The Cubs opted to rule him out for his expected Wednesday start, which would have been his return from the injured list.

Stroman first reported the rib discomfort later on Sunday after his final bullpen session in Toronto.

Cubs manager David Ross said it was “more than likely” that Assad would get the ball on what would be normal rest.

Assad was exceptional in his last start against Toronto on Friday, as he claimed the victory. He threw seven innings, giving up four hits and one earned run. He struck out two and walked one.

He’s been mostly a reliever for the Cubs this season, as he’s made 18 of his 21 appearances in relief. But he has put up solid numbers in his last seven appearances (two starts, five bullpen), during which he went 2-0 with a 1.23 ERA in 22 innings, giving up nine walks and striking out 16.

For the season he is 2-2 with a 3.12 ERA, with 45 strikeouts and 26 walks.

Assad started the season with the Triple-A Iowa Cubs, with his last recall coming on May 24.

After Wednesday’s game with the White Sox, the Cubs enjoy an off-day on Thursday before hosting the Kansas City Royals starting on Friday.