The Chicago Cubs secured a 6-5 victory over the Miami Marlins, thanks to the resilient pitching of Javier Assad. Although Assad struggled with control, issuing five walks, he managed 4 2/3 innings and allowed only three runs. Ryan Zeferjahn contributed a crucial 1 2/3 scoreless innings, earning his first save for the Cubs.
Assad, starting for the first time in a month, conceded a two-run home run immediately after leaving the mound. Despite this, his performance kept the Cubs ahead. “I wasn’t as fine as usual,” Assad conveyed, “I fought through, pitch by pitch.” Assad’s perseverance was evident in his ability to keep the score favorable when departing the game.
Initially, the Cubs faced difficulties against Marlins starter Ryan Gusto. Michael Busch faced a strikeout due to a pitch-clock violation, followed by an inning-ending double play. In the second inning, notable defensive plays from the Marlins halted Cubs’ attempts at aggressive base-running.
Despite these setbacks, the Cubs broke through in the third inning. Michael Conforto hit his 14th home run of the year, bolstering the lineup’s pressure on Gusto. Ian Happ further expanded the lead with a two-run single. Contributions from Pete Crow-Armstrong, Nico Hoerner, and Busch ensured the Cubs maintained their lead.
The Cubs’ bullpen demonstrated its strength as the game progressed. Ryan Rolison thwarted potential threats by Marlins in the seventh. Zeferjahn’s crucial intervention in the eighth preserved the Cubs’ lead, finishing the ninth with a well-earned save.
“We’ve got a lot of confidence in Javier Assad, no matter the situation or if he’s been up or down or in the bullpen or starting,” Nico Hoerner stated.
Manager Craig Counsell appreciates Assad’s flexibility, especially after recent trade additions. Assad’s adaptability allows the Cubs to adjust based on team needs, serving as both starter and reliever. His return follows a stint in Triple-A Iowa, providing rotation rest amid a busy schedule.
Assad has significantly increased his workload this season, throwing 113 innings between the Cubs and Triple-A. His multifaceted role contributes effectively, enhancing the Cubs’ strategic depth. “He’s gotten people out. That’s what you’re here to do,” Counsell remarked. Assad’s consistent ability to perform, regardless of position, underpins the Cubs’ successes on the field.
Leave a Reply