Javier Assad Sidelined with Oblique Injury, Cubs Exploring Options for Fifth Starter

Chicago Cubs right-hander Javier Assad has been ruled out for the beginning of the 2025 season due to oblique soreness, putting a temporary halt on the team’s plans to have him in the Opening Day rotation. Assad, 27, has been a valuable contributor over the past few seasons, serving as a swingman in the Cubs’ pitching staff. However, his spring injury leaves the Cubs scrambling for a solution for the fifth starter position in the rotation.

Assad has been effective for Chicago, posting a 3.06 ERA in 147 innings over the past two seasons, despite underlying metrics that suggested his performance could have been better. In 2024, he continued to defy the odds, finishing with a 3.73 ERA and pitching over 140 innings. However, his 4.64 FIP and 4.72 SIERA indicated that his success may not be sustainable. With Assad sidelined, the Cubs must now find a reliable option to fill the void.

While Assad’s injury is a setback for the Cubs, the team is optimistic that he will be able to resume throwing soon. The Cubs hope to have him throw a bullpen session next week, though his status for the early part of the season remains uncertain. As a result, the Cubs are already considering alternative options for the fifth starter spot.

The Fifth Starter Battle

Without Assad in the mix, the Cubs have several potential candidates for the fifth spot in their rotation. Veteran Colin Rea, 34, who signed a two-year deal with the Cubs in December, appears to be the front-runner. Rea posted a 4.40 ERA and 4.82 FIP over 58 appearances with Milwaukee over the past two years, primarily as a starter. While Rea has experience as a long reliever, his experience and stability make him a solid option to fill the rotation role if needed.

Other candidates include right-hander Ben Brown, who impressed in his rookie season with a 3.58 ERA and 3.11 FIP in 55 1/3 innings before being sidelined by injury. The Cubs are hopeful that Brown, now healthy, can earn the fifth starter spot. Jordan Wicks, a former top-100 prospect, also has significant upside despite struggling with injuries in 2024.

Veterans Chris Flexen and Brad Keller are also in camp as non-roster invitees, and either could factor into the competition for the fifth starter job. Flexen, who has significant MLB experience, could provide a steady option in the rotation if needed.

Looking Ahead

While the Cubs are focused on finding a temporary solution for the fifth starter spot, the injury to Assad opens up the possibility for other pitchers to secure a more permanent role in the rotation. As the season progresses, whoever fills the fifth starter role could eventually have the opportunity to solidify their position even after Assad returns. For now, the Cubs remain hopeful that their rotation can maintain stability despite the early-season absence of one of their key pitchers.