The Cubs have reportedly declined Javier Assad’s $3.3 million option for 2027, making him arbitration eligible.

The Cubs still haven’t announced the decision, even though it was supposed to be made Monday. However, it doesn’t alter their roster at all. Assad made $1.8 million last season in his first year of arbitration, and he should make $2.5 million to $3 million next year after posting a 3.63 ERA in 11 starts and 17 relief appearances in 2026. He can also now say goodbye to Iowa for good, since he’s out of options. The Cubs sent him down four times last season.