Cubs option Javier Assad to Triple‑A as Craig Counsell reshapes Chicago’s roster
The Mexican player was demoted by Chicago to their AAA minor league affiliate, the Iowa Cubs. Ben Brown will take his place on the roster.
Chicago Cubs manager Craig Counsell has made significant adjustments to his roster, and one of the biggest moves involves Mexican pitcher Javier Assad.
The Baja California native has reportedly been optioned to the Cubs’ Triple‑A affiliate in Iowa. Assad had represented Mexico earlier this spring in the World Baseball Classic.
Seiya Suzuki will start the season on the IL, and Javier Assad was optioned to Triple-A, Craig Counsell announced today. pic.twitter.com/JTfCan9RQd
— Marquee Sports Network (@WatchMarquee) March 23, 2026
For now, it appears Assad’s immediate future won’t be in the majors. Chicago has been forced to reshuffle its lineup after a series of roster changes. Outfielder Seiya Suzuki was placed on the injured list with a posterior cruciate ligament sprain, while starter Ben Brown earned a spot on the Opening Day roster. Assad’s demotion was likely necessary to make room for Brown.
Projected Cubs Bullpen
- Daniel Palencia
- Phil Maton
- Hunter Harvey
- Caleb Thielbar
- Hoby Milner
- Jacob Webb
- Colin Rea
- Ben Brown
With strong performances in Iowa, Assad could still work his way back to the majors. To do that, he’ll need to sharpen his pitches and deliver consistent results in Triple‑A to stay on Counsell’s radar.
World Baseball Classic performance
Some fans on social media have speculated that Assad’s WBC workload influenced the Cubs’ decision, but the reality is that internal competition in Chicago is intense. The right‑hander will need to regain top form to fight for a roster spot later in the season.
Assad started Mexico’s opening game against Great Britain, throwing three innings with two hits allowed, one walk, and two strikeouts. His outing against Italy, however, was a setback: he surrendered four hits and two home runs that resulted in four runs. Mexico was eliminated after failing to secure a win against a surprising Italian squad.
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