Cubs Activate Edward Cabrera, Option Javier Assad Ahead of Cardinals Series Finale

The Chicago Cubs added right-hander Edward Cabrera to the major-league roster, activating him from the 15-day injured list. Cabrera, 28, returns after a left hamstring strain that sidelined him since late June. In his 14 starts this season, he is 5-4 with a 5.10 ERA. To create a roster spot, the club optioned right-hander Javier Assad to Triple-A Iowa. Assad, 29, posted a 6-1 record with a 3.59 ERA over 21 appearances (10 starts) before the move.

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Cubs manager Craig Counsell explained that the decision was driven by depth considerations. Counsell added that the team is “at go time” and expects Cabrera to contribute immediately.

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Analyst Bruce Levine reported that the Cubs intend to maintain a five-man rotation for the remainder of the season, though a six-man rotation could be contemplated when rosters expand to 14 pitchers in September. The recent trade-deadline acquisitions of Kevin Gausman, Clay Holmes and left-hander David Peterson have bolstered the rotation, allowing the club to shift Peterson to the bullpen and keep the staff fresh for a postseason run. Levine also noted that Assad’s 80.1 innings this year include a 16.5 % strikeout rate, 1.68 home runs per nine innings, a 5.01 FIP and a 4.42 xFIP, metrics that suggest a replacement-level arm despite his solid ERA.

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As of August 16, the Cubs hold a four-game lead over the Milwaukee Brewers for the top National League Wild-Card spot and sit six games ahead of the San Diego Padres, Philadelphia Phillies and Arizona Diamondbacks. Preserving depth in the rotation is aimed at keeping the pitching staff healthy and competitive as the club eyes a postseason berth.

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Assad must remain in Triple-A for at least 15 days and cannot be recalled until August 31, unless an injury creates an opening. The Cubs will evaluate the rotation’s configuration through the final weeks of the regular season, with the possibility of expanding the staff in September.

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