Cubs reveal next Justin Steele steps as anticipated return becomes race against 2026 season

With two weeks left in the regular season, the clock is ticking for Chicago Cubs pitcher Justin Steele to return from the injured list. Steele hasn't pitched in an MLB game since Apr. 7 of the 2025 season due to undergoing left elbow surgery. But it now appears that he's getting close to a big league come back.

Craig Counsell told reporters over the weekend that Steele will throw a bullpen in front of team pitching coaches in Chicago on Sunday. If all goes well, Steele will pitch in another rehab game for Triple-A Iowa.

This would be Steele's fourth, and presumably final, minor league appearance on his rehab assignment. He has posted a 6.35 ERA over 5.2 innings in three appearances (two starts) with Triple-A Iowa.

Given where we are on the baseball calendar, Steele should return to the big leagues after his next rehab outing. But everything must go smoothly with his next steps. The 31-year-old cannot afford anymore setbacks or else his season will officially be over before it started.

Since there is not enough time to build him up as a starter, Steele will return to the Cubs as a relief pitcher. This should help in the postseason given the Cubs' bullpen has struggled mightily as of late. Steele could serve in a multi-inning relief role out of the Cubs' bullpen in the playoffs, but the team is hoping he can showcase himself in the majors before the regular season ends. The Cubs also moved starter Edward Cabrera to the bullpen recently.

After a season of setbacks, Justin Steele's return is imminent

Steele was initially expected back in the beginning of the 2026 season. However, the southpaw suffered a left elbow flexor strain and has dealt with numerous setbacks in his rehab. The Cubs could've used Steele in their rotation or bullpen this season, but they will take him returning to help contribute in the postseason.

The Cubs have dealt with a slew of pitching injuries this season, which is why they added Kevin Gausman, Clay Holmes, David Peterson and Ryan Zeferjahn prior to the trade deadline. The Cubs are without Cade Horton (Tommy John surgery) and Ben Brown (neck) for the rest of the season as well.

The Cubs entered play on Sunday with a 83-66 record and hold a one game lead over the Philadelphia Phillies for the top NL Wild Card spot and No. 4 seed. Steele could assist them in locking down this top position in the standings if he can return in time.

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