Javier Assad’s exclusion from the Chicago Cubs’ Opening Day roster might not have shocked many, but it certainly raises some eyebrows. Spending a significant portion of spring with Team Mexico at the World Baseball Classic, Assad found himself on the outside looking in as the Cubs revamped their bullpen and leaned on a starting rotation led by Edward Cabrera.

The Cubs aren’t breaking any rules by sending the 28-year-old to Triple-A, given he has two option years left. This move seems more about a team with depth strategically positioning itself for future needs.

Yet, why does Assad heading to Iowa feel off? Is it because he’s only logged 66 2/3 innings in Triple-A, a mere 20% of his major-league experience? Or did the Cubs perhaps overlook his potential in favor of another?

The real issue might be that Assad’s future is simply elsewhere. With Ben Brown impressing during spring training, thanks to a new sinker, the Cubs had tough decisions to make.

Javier Assad: A Potential Trade Asset for the Cubs

Labeling someone with a career 4.46 FIP as “too good” for Triple-A might seem a stretch, but Assad is a special case.

Last season, despite being hampered by an oblique strain that limited him to seven starts and one bullpen appearance over 37 innings, Assad managed a 3.65 ERA and a 47.4% ground-ball rate. His strikeouts dipped, but so did his walks and home runs allowed.

Assad excels in managing contact, utilizing a diverse seven-pitch mix designed to keep hitters guessing rather than overpowering them. While advanced metrics may not always favor him, his career 3.43 ERA suggests he’s a viable option for a major league rotation or long relief role.

The Cubs’ decision to add Brown to the Opening Day bullpen is understandable. Brown’s dynamic stuff and potential are hard to ignore. If the coaching staff believes he’s ready for the spotlight, it’s a choice that makes sense.

Still, Assad is more than just a Triple-A placeholder. The Cubs don’t owe him beyond his contract, but his track record suggests he deserves clarity on his future. With three years of team control left, Assad could be a valuable trade asset if the Cubs don’t plan to call him up soon.

If Assad stays with the Cubs, expect him to return to Chicago eventually. When he does, don’t be surprised to see him making an impact at the highest level once again.