Javier Assad's Progress Report: A Bright Spot for the Cubs

CHICAGO, ILLINOIS - JUNE 7: Javier Assad #72 of the Chicago Cubs reacts during a game against the San Francisco Giants at Wrigley Field on June 7, 2026. (Photo by Matt Dirksen/Chicago Cubs/Getty Images)

Welcome to another edition of BCB After Dark, the go-to spot for night owls, early risers, new parents, and Cubs enthusiasts. We're glad you're here. There's no entry fee, and the vibe is relaxed. Please make yourself at home and feel free to bring your own drink as we dive into tonight’s discussions.

In last night’s poll, I asked whether you would consider trading Seiya Suzuki before the trade deadline. The results were intriguing: 40% of you voted against a trade, while 60% were in favor, with 33% of those preferring a starting pitcher in return and 27% willing to settle for prospects.

Switching gears, I want to take a moment to remember the late South African jazz legend Abdullah Ibrahim, who passed away at 91. Known as “Dollar Brand” earlier in his career, Ibrahim collaborated with numerous jazz greats and his composition “Mannenberg” became an iconic anti-apartheid anthem, cherished by Nelson Mandela.

This season has been a mixed bag for Cubs pitching. The team’s ERA and runs allowed hover around league averages, which falls short of expectations for a franchise hoping for more than mediocrity. Key pitchers have struggled, with some, like Cade Horton and Matthew Boyd, sidelined by injuries, while others, like Jameson Taillon and Edward Cabrera, have underperformed. However, let’s focus on the positives, particularly Javier Assad, who has risen to the occasion this year.

After a tough start to the season, which saw him sent down to Triple-A Iowa following some rough outings, Assad has made a strong comeback. He was called back to the majors due to injuries and has since delivered impressive performances. In his two most recent outings, he pitched 6.1 scoreless innings in relief and followed up with six shutout innings against the Giants, allowing only three hits. Overall, Assad boasts a record of 4-1 with a 3.99 ERA over 38.1 innings in four starts and six relief appearances. While it’s too early for a final assessment, it’s time to give him a mid-season report card. What grade would you assign to Javier Assad at this stage?

Thank you for joining us tonight. We appreciate your presence and wish you a safe journey home. If you need a ride, don’t hesitate to call one. Remember to recycle any cans and bottles, tip your waitstaff, and we look forward to seeing you again tomorrow for more BCB After Dark.