While the expectation is that Javier Assad will start pitching off a mound again this week, the Chicago Cubs may play it safe and place the righty on the injured list to start the regular season.

With Assad out of the running for the fifth-starter spot, left-hander Jordan Wicks and right-handers Colin Rea and Ben Brown are the remaining contenders. Rea, who pitched three scoreless innings and limited the Guardians to one hit Saturday, is expected to make the Opening Day roster, but he has experience in multiple roles.

Javier Assad won't be part of the Cubs' roster for the Tokyo Series or Opening Day against the Diamondbacks later this month. Read more at MLBTR.