Cubs' Javier Assad: Lasts just four innings vs. Cards
Rotowire
Assad did not factor into the decision Friday against St. Louis, allowing one run on four hits and three walks over four innings. He struck out three.
Assad was lucky to escape Friday's outing with just one run against him, particularly in the third inning when the Cards could only score once after loading the bases. However, Assad ultimately failed to qualify for a win as he was removed prior to the fifth inning after needing 97 pitches to get through four. Walks have been a struggle for Assad lately -- the 27-year-old right-hander's now issued 10 free passes in his last three starts (13.1 innings). Overall, he's 5-3 on the season with a 3.19 ERA, 1.37 WHIP and 89:45 K:BB across 98.2 innings. Assad will look to improve his command in his next start, currently lined up for next week at home against Minnesota.
Assad (5-3) yielded three runs on five hits and a walk over six innings Sunday, striking out five and earning a win over the Royals.
Assad was tagged with two runs in the first inning but was able to shake it off and deliver a quality start. The only damage against him after that was a solo shot by Freddy Fermin. Assad completed six innings for the first time since May 15, which was also his last win. During that nine-start span between wins, he posted a 5.13 ERA and a 5.8 BB/9 over 40.1 frames. Assad now owns a 3.23 ERA with an 86:42 K:BB through 19 outings. His next start is projected to be at home against the Cardinals.
Assad did not factor into the decision in Monday's 3-1 win over Milwaukee, allowing one hit and six walks over 3.1 innings. He struck out two.
Assad made his second appearance since returning from a forearm strain and was unable to locate the strike zone, issuing a career-worst six free passes and needing 76 pitches to record 10 outs. He's now yielded eight walks across 6.2 innings since coming off the IL. Overall, the Cubs righty sports a 3.15 ERA in 88.2 innings, but he may be unable to maintain that mark given his subpar 4.61 FIP and 4.2 BB/9. Assad is currently scheduled to make his next start against the Royals on the road this weekend.
