Cubs Promote Nelson Velazquez, Send Javier Assad to Triple-A Iowa

Velazquez, dubbed "Nelly V" by Cubs On Tap, had a scorching hot start to his 2023 campaign. The 24-year-old swung his way to a .364/.432/.697 slash line to start the season with three home runs, two doubles, and seven RBI in eight games. With the lack of consistent offense from players not named Nico Hoerner, Dansby Swanson, and Ian Happ, and only two healthy outfielders on the roster, the Cubs needed to make a move. Giving Velazquez another shot makes plenty of sense, as the youngster can man right field for a few days while the team waits for Seiya Suzuki. 

In 2022, Nelly V appeared in 77 games with the Cubs at the MLB level. He slashed .205/.286/.373 with six long balls and 26 runs driven in. Unfortunately for Velazquez, he did not receive consistent time in the outfield in 2022, despite an underwhelming roster in terms of talent. The youngster needs the playing time to continue developing into a big leaguer, another reason why a similar player, Christopher Morel, is in Triple-A Iowa as well. 

On the other hand, Javier Assad is on his way back to the minors. After a red-hot World Baseball Classic for Team Mexico, Assad has fallen from grace to begin the 2023 campaign. In two games and 4.1 innings of work, Assad carries a 12.46 ERA to open the season. Although not walking a lot of batters, Assad has been banged around in meaningful situations. He watched a lead evaporate in the season's second game against the Milwaukee Brewers and his latest outing against the Texas Rangers wasn't much better. 

Perhaps some time in Iowa, likely working as a starter, will do well for Assad. A move so early in the season begs questions regarding the plan for Assad's future. Will he ever come back to return to the pen? Will he exclusively be viewed as a starter moving forward? Although Assad seems to have the versatility to do different things, the plan may be changing on the fly for the young right-hander. 

What's On Tap Next?

Velazquez is not in the lineup on Monday when the Cubs welcome the Seattle Mariners to Wrigley Field for three games. Monday's first pitch is set for 6:40 p.m. CDT with Drew Smyly facing Luis Castillo for the home and away sides, respectively.