Jul 26, 2025, 08:28 PM ET<\/p>\n
CHICAGO — Javier Assad<\/a> thinks he can help the Chicago Cubs<\/a> in the last part of the season. So does manager Craig Counsell.<\/p>\n Assad is slated to make a rehab start for Triple-A Iowa on Wednesday. The right-hander is coming back from a troublesome left oblique injury.<\/p>\n “Just trying to get back to my 100 percent,” Assad said Saturday through an interpreter.<\/p>\n Assad, who turns 28 on Wednesday, got hurt during spring training. He aggravated the injury during a rehab start with Iowa in April.<\/p>\n Editor’s Picks<\/p>\n 2 Related<\/p>\n He tossed three scoreless innings in a rehab appearance in the Arizona Complex League on Thursday.<\/p>\n “It’s been a tough season for Javy in terms of, you know, he was really injured most of spring training and his entirety of the season,” Counsell said. “But I think the thing to remember is that we have important baseball left and he can be a contributor.<\/p>\n “He’s on a good track right now, and I know it’s good to be around the team again and get you feeling like you’re close.”<\/p>\n Assad’s return could provide a lift for a depleted Cubs rotation. Jameson Taillon also is on his way back after being sidelined by a right calf strain. Justin Steele<\/a> made four starts before he had season-ending elbow surgery.<\/p>\n