Cubs Face Major Pitching Decisions as Assad and Austin Enter Uncertain Offseason

On November 4, the Cubs’ offseason took shape around a need to rebuild their pitching staff and decisions on two players’ futures. The team declined Javier Assad’s $3.3 million option for 2027, but he remains under team control through arbitration and is projected to return to the 40-man roster. His arbitration deal is expected to cost less than the option price.

Assad had a 3.63 ERA in 28 appearances this season, including 11 starts. He could remain a rotation depth option or work in relief as Chicago adds arms. The team has several openings after David Peterson, Clay Holmes, Kevin Gausman and Shota Imanaga reached free agency, Matthew Boyd declined his option and the Cubs declined Colin Rea’s option.

Ken Rosenthal said he expects Chicago to sign or trade for two starters, describing the available market as deep in starting pitchers, though not necessarily top-tier ones. He did not expect the Cubs to offer Tarik Skubal a franchise-record contract. The team is also expected to consider bullpen additions as it tries to strengthen its pitching staff.

Tyler Austin was outrighted to Triple-A Iowa, putting his future with the Cubs in doubt. He missed the entire season after right knee surgery, despite having been expected to compete for playing time. The 35-year-old spent six seasons with Japan’s Yokohama DeNA BayStars, hitting 85 home runs and driving in 236 runs. Chicago could keep him as a depth option for 2027 or move on.