Cubs Recall Jeremiah Estrada, Send Javier Assad to Triple-A Iowa

The Cubs have recalled RHP Jeremiah Estrada to bolster the bullpen, while Thursday's spot starter RHP Javier Assad returns to Triple-A.

Ahead of the second game between the Los Angeles Dodgers and Chicago Cubs, the Cubs continued to reinforce their bullpen. After Jameson Taillon hit the injured list on Thursday, RHP Javier Assad made the spot start for the Cubs. Following the start, the Cubs decided to play the roster management cheat code and move a starter for another bullpen arm.

Assad pitched 3.0 innings on Thursday, allowing two earned runs, walking two, and striking out three. The right-hander was plagued by the long ball, allowing two solo home runs. 

The only issue for the Cubs with Assad starting was digging deep into the bullpen to get through the outing. With Assad only pitching three innings, LHP Brandon Hughes was forced to pitch 2.0 innings, and Adbert Alzolay, Michael Rucker, and Brad Boxberger were all used for an inning. Michael Fulmer made it 0.1 innings before allowing the game-winning grand slam. That said, Julian Merryweather was also used on Thursday to clean up for the veteran. 

With the use of so many arms, the Cubs need some bullpen help for Friday. RHP Jeremiah Estrada will be a well-needed flamethrower in the pen. 

The 24-year-old has yet to pitch in the majors in 2023. However, with Triple-A Iowa, Estrada has thrown 6.0 innings in five appearances, picking up two holds. He has yet to allow a run, and has fanned seven while walking only two batters. 

Estrada has been a name that Cubs fans want to see more of. He made five appearances in 2022, and fans saw enough with his triple-digit fastball to call for opportunities. Now, he'll likely be used on Friday with a spent bullpen. LHP Drew Smyly takes the bump, so a quality start will be just what the doctor ordered while they likely turn it over to Estrada and others after.