Javier Assad Returns To Cubs As Fresh Bullpen Arm

The need for a fresh arm apparently was more important than continuing to stretch out Javier Assad.

The Cubs on Saturday called up the right-hander from Triple-A Iowa after just three outings totaling nine innings. Right-hander Ethan Roberts was sent down to Triple-A after being one of four relievers used in Friday's 18-3 loss to the San Francisco Giants.

Assad had been sent down to Triple-A May 17 under the premise of stretching him out to be a starter. He did start all three games there, with the first two outings lasting 3⅔ and the second 4⅓. His third start, however, happened Wednesday and he went just one inning without allowing a run or a hit.

Assad has made three starts among his eight appearances this year with a 4.84 FIP (5.88 ERA) over 26 innings. He has an excellent 6.5% walk rate but just a 13% strikeout rate this year.

Roberts has a 3.77 FIP (1.98 ERA) in 14 appearances and 18⅓ innings, with a 9.7% walk rate and 19.4% strikeout rate. He allowed one run in 1⅔ innings vs. the Giants, a game that saw catcher Carson Kelly make yet another mound appearance.