Overview
- The Cubs activated right‑hander Edward Cabrera and had him start Sunday after a left hamstring strain sidelined him since June 24.
- To open a roster spot for Cabrera the team optioned versatile righty Javier Assad to Triple‑A Iowa and he must remain there for 15 days unless he is recalled to replace an injured player.
- Cabrera reached the majors after three upper‑minor rehab outings, including a five‑inning scoreless start on August 11 that helped prompt his activation.
- Cabrera’s 2026 numbers have regressed from 2025, with a 5.10 ERA and 14 home runs allowed, raising questions about whether he can immediately stabilize the rotation.
- Manager Craig Counsell said the club will stick with a five‑man rotation for now and left open the possibility of using a six‑man plan when rosters expand on September 1, a move that ties to recent deadline additions meant to shore up starting depth.