Cubs Edge Marlins with Assad’s Gritty Performance

Javier Assad played a crucial role for the Chicago Cubs despite working with less-than-perfect command. During their 6-5 victory over the Miami Marlins, Assad overcame a season-high five walks over 4 2/3 innings, minimizing damage to help secure the win.

Although making his first major league start in a month, Assad allowed three hits and three runs. One run came when reliever Caleb Thielbar conceded a two-run home run to Griffin Conine. Assad remarked through an interpreter, “I fought pitch by pitch.” His determination helped the Cubs take a lead when he exited the game.

The Cubs appeared primed for a tough loss. An early scoring chance went amiss against Marlins starter Ryan Gusto. Pete Crow-Armstrong walked and Seiya Suzuki singled, but Michael Busch struck out due to a pitch-clock violation, followed by an inning-ending double play by Alex Bregman.

The following inning saw the Cubs’ inefficiency continue with two players getting out at third base. Marlins center fielder Jakob Marsee threw out Ian Happ trying to advance on Nico Hoerner’s single. Hoerner was then caught stealing third, closing the inning.

However, the Cubs found success by pressuring Gusto. Michael Conforto hit his 14th home run, a solo shot in the third inning, and Happ’s two-run single with the bases loaded widened the lead. Crow-Armstrong, Hoerner, and Busch each drove in a run in subsequent innings to maintain their advantage.

The Marlins attempted to rally, but the Cubs bullpen held firm. Left-hander Ryan Rolison entered in the seventh, eliminating the threat by forcing a groundout from Marsee. Manager Craig Counsell then turned to Ryan Zeferjahn when Miami put the potential tying run on second base in the eighth. Zeferjahn retired two batters to preserve the lead and pitched securely through the ninth for his first save.

During this game, Assad’s value to the pitching staff was apparent. His ability to adapt has been a boon amid trade-deadline acquisitions like Clay Holmes and Kevin Gausman, offering Counsell various strategic options throughout the season.

Nico Hoerner expressed confidence in Assad, saying, “No matter the situation…we have supreme confidence in him.” Following Assad’s recall, Tyler Ferguson was optioned to Iowa. Counsell emphasized the need for flexibility, stating, “We create a better team through this.”

This game marked Assad’s first opportunity for recall after fifteen days in Triple-A Iowa. This return synced with the Cubs’ plan to rest their starting rotation and use a six-man roster for one cycle. An upcoming off day will allow them to return to a standard five-man rotation.

Assad has managed his increased workload effectively after facing limitations last year due to injuries. Combining his innings in Triple A and with the Cubs, he has reached 113 innings this season. Counsell praised his contribution, highlighting his versatility to provide critical innings and secure victories in various roles.