Cubs place Yan Gomes on IL, recall Javier Assad from Triple-A
Yan Gomes is headed to the injured list.
The veteran catcher was placed on the 7-day concussion injured list, retroactive to May 2. Gomes was hit in the back of the head on a backswing from Jeimer Candelario on Monday and exited the game in the 2nd inning. Tucker Barnhart replaced him and on Wednesday the Cubs recalled prospect Miguel Amaya to serve as their backup catcher.
In a corresponding move, the Cubs recalled righty Javier Assad.
The #Cubs today recalled RHP Javier Assad from @IowaCubs and placed C Yan Gomes on the 7-day concussion IL (retroactive to May 2). pic.twitter.com/Mto5jsj6S6
— Chicago Cubs (@Cubs) May 3, 2023
It’s a tough blow for Gomes and the Cubs — the team was 12-5 in games that he’s started and has played a pivotal role in the team’s game calling and planning. He’ll be eligible to come off the IL next Tuesday when the Cubs host St. Louis.
He’s been strong at the plate, too, slashing .294/.310/.529 with 5 home runs and 13 RBI. He ranks 4th among NL catchers in weighted runs created plus (123, min. 60 plate appearances).
Assad made the team out of spring in a reliever role, after excelling in that spot with Mexico in the World Baseball Classic. He struggled in 2 appearances, allowing 6 runs on 6 hits in 4.1 innings of relief role. He was optioned to Iowa and was being stretched out and made a 3-inning spot start for the Cubs on April 20. In 3 games with Iowa, Assad has posted a 3.38 ERA and a 1.13 WHIP. In his last outing on April 30, he threw 4.2 scoreless innings, allowing 3 hits and striking out 6.