Cubs recall RHP Javier Assad for start against Marlins

Aug 4, 2026; Chicago, Illinois, USA; Chicago Cubs starting pitcher Javier Assad (72) delivers a pitch against the Los Angeles Dodgers during the second inning at Wrigley Field. Mandatory Credit: Kamil Krzaczynski-Imagn Images The Chicago Cubs recalled right-hander Javier Assad to start Saturday's road game against the Miami Marlins. To clear a roster spot, the Cubs optioned right-hander Tyler Ferguson to Triple-A Iowa. Assad, 29, is 6-1 with a 3.46 ERA in 22 appearances (10 starts) for the Cubs this season. He has spent the year shuttling between the Cubs and Iowa and moving from the rotation to the bullpen. In five seasons with Chicago, Asad is 24-13 with a 3.43 ERA in 100 appearances (64 starts). Ferguson, 32, is 0-1 with a 3.63 ERA in 17 relief appearances for the Cubs this season after he was acquired in a May trade from the Athletics. In three major league seasons with the Athletics and Cubs he is 8-5 with a 4.36 ERA in 122 relief appearances. --Field Level Media