Cubs recall RHP Javier Assad, option RHP Ethan Roberts

Field Level Media|published: Sat 6th June, 14:03 2026

Apr 13, 2026; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA; Chicago Cubs pitcher Javier Assad (72) throws a pitch against the Philadelphia Phillies during the first inning at Citizens Bank Park. Mandatory Credit: Eric Hartline-Imagn Images

The Chicago Cubs recalled right-hander Javier Assad to the major league roster Saturday, while right-hander Ethan Roberts was optioned to Triple-A Iowa.

Assad, 28, made eight appearances (three starts) with the Cubs this season, going 3-1 with a 5.88 ERA. He was optioned to Iowa on May 17 with the original intention of stretching him out as a regular starter.

Assad made two starts at Iowa to open the season, was called up to the Cubs, then made three starts in his most recent stint in Triple-A and had a 6.00 ERA over nine innings. He pitched just one inning against Toledo on Wednesday.

In five major league seasons, all with the Cubs, Assad is 21-13 with a 3.61 ERA in 86 appearances (57 starts). He made 29 starts in 2024 when he went 7-6 with a 3.73 ERA.

Roberts, 28, was 0-1 with a 1.96 ERA in 14 relief appearances for the Cubs this season. He gave up a run over 1 2/3 innings against the San Francisco Giants on Friday.

In parts of four major league seasons with the Cubs, Roberts is 2-3 with a 4.09 ERA in 54 relief appearances.

--Field Level Media

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