Assad (oblique) has resumed playing catch, Maddie Lee of the Chicago Sun-Times reports.

Cubs manager Craig Counsell said Tuesday that Assad was diagnosed with a mild oblique strain and will be shut down from throwing for a few days, Bruce Levine of 670TheScore.com reports.

Assad is dealing with oblique soreness and will undergo imaging Monday, Meghan Montemurro of the Chicago Tribune reports.

Assad is likely vying for the Cubs' fifth rotation spot this spring, with Jordan Wicks among his top competitors, Tony Andracki of Marquee Sports Network reports.

Assad did not factor into the decision in a win over the Nationals on Thursday, allowing three runs on seven hits and one walk over five innings. He struck out five.

Assad came away with a no-decision in Friday's 9-5 loss to the Rockies, giving up four runs on seven hits and three walks over six innings. He struck out five.

Assad (7-4) earned the win against the Nationals on Saturday, allowing three runs on eight hits and two walks with four strikeouts over six innings.

Assad (6-4) allowed three runs on six hits and a walk while striking out three over seven innings, taking the loss versus the Marlins on Sunday.

Assad (6-3) picked up the win Tuesday, allowing one run on six hits and a walk over 5.2 innings in a 3-1 victory over the Tigers. He struck out seven.

Assad did not factor into the decision Friday against St. Louis, allowing one run on four hits and three walks over four innings. He struck out three.