Cubs Rotation Shake-Up: Who Will Step Up in Assad's Absence? 

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The Chicago Cubs are facing a significant challenge as they head into the 2025 season without their starting pitcher Javier Assad, who has been sidelined with oblique soreness. This raises some intriguing questions about the Cubs' rotation and the potential impact on their season.

As we look at the current state of the Cubs' pitching staff, who do you think should step up to fill the void left by Assad? With options like Colin Rea, Ben Brown, and even the possibility of Chris Flexen or Brad Keller, who do you believe has the best chance to not only secure the fifth starter spot but also make a lasting impact on the rotation?

Moreover, Assad's track record of outperforming his underlying metrics raises a debate about the reliability of traditional stats versus advanced analytics. Can we trust pitchers like Assad who consistently defy the odds, or are they just ticking time bombs waiting to implode?

Let’s also consider the broader implications for the Cubs. If the fifth starter performs well, could this lead to a shake-up in the rotation once Assad returns? How do you think the Cubs should approach their pitching strategy moving forward, especially with the uncertainty surrounding Assad's health?

Lastly, what are your bold predictions for the Cubs' pitching staff this season? Will they rise to the occasion, or are we looking at a potential struggle that could derail their playoff hopes? Share your thoughts and let’s get the conversation rolling!

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