Assad is slated to start Sunday’s series finale, bringing another fresh arm to Chicago’s rotation as the Cubs aim to keep momentum. His presence on the mound adds a layer of depth to Chicago’s plan as they look to sustain their late-season push.

Assad’s return from the injured list was rough, yielding four earned runs in four innings. His capability to adapt post-injury could impact Cubs’ rotation planning and fantasy value moving forward, especially if the Cubs lean on him for upcoming interleague starts. For now, his line in this outing limits his fantasy appeal.

Assad was touched by Clement’s misread bunt signal, as the pitcher surrendered a three-run homer that helped drain Chicago’s early deficit. While the outing showed the Cubs’ struggle against Toronto’s attack, Assad worked into the middle frames and offered situational innings before the bullpen turned the game.

Assad worked four innings, charged with four runs on eight hits after a season-warming return. He faced a sharp Jays lineup that exploited a four-run fourth and coasted to a 5-1 Chicago loss, as the Cubs bullpen limited damage but couldn't reclaim momentum.

Assad joins the Cubs’ 40-man roster after a quiet year and could fill a long-relief role or spot start in a doubleheader. His move creates a space on the 40-man and adds bullpen/rotation depth as the Cubs rework their pitching plan around Amaya’s return and Taillon’s potential activation.