Dexter Fowler had a front-row seat to one of the most dominating runs by a pitcher in recent memory — Jake Arrieta’s dominant stretch from 2015 to 2016. 

So, when he sees what Javier Assad is doing for the Cubs right now, it’s worth taking note.

“Hey, I know that look all too well,” Fowler said after the Cubs’ 3-1 win over the Astros on Thursday on Cubs Postgame Live. “That’s a look of, ‘I’m about to dominate.'” 

Which former Cub does Javier Assad remind Dexter Fowler of?

Jake Arrieta 😳 pic.twitter.com/2S21iOFIIK

— Marquee Sports Network (@WatchMarquee) April 26, 2024

Fowler compared the stretch Assad is on to the run that Arrieta went on during the peak years of 2015 and 2016, where he won a Cy Young Award and threw a pair of no-hitters.

Assad has certainly been dominant to start the season. His 2.00 ERA ranks seventh among qualified pitchers in the National League. He’s allowed 2 or fewer runs in his last six starts, dating back to last season. Simply put, he’s been a dominating force for the Cubs.

Since June 27, 2023, Assad owns a 2.15 ERA in 108.2 innings. No pitcher in baseball has a better ERA in that span with at least 100 innings pitched. He’s been a steady and strong presence for a pitching staff that has needed that, especially this year.

For all his early season success, Assad was far from a lock to open the year in the rotation. He was in a roster battle in spring with Jordan Wicks and Drew Smyly for the final rotation spot. When Jameson Taillon was injured, that created another rotation spot, but even then, it was far from a lock for him to be in the rotation. He started the season as the team’s 5th starter, yet has quickly emerged as their top starter, along rookie Shota Imanaga.