Assad is expected to serve in a long-relief role for the Cubs to begin the season after Hayden Wesneski was named the team's No. 5 starter, Taylor McGregor of Marquee Sports Network reports.
Wesneski seemed like the favorite to win the job throughout camp, so Assad shifting to the minors or the MLB bullen has been on the radar. If he sticks with the Cubs, Assad could be a multi-inning relief weapon, a role he excelled in with Team Mexico during the World Baseball Classic. The 25-year-old still has some upside and could be a starting option later in the year.