Chicago Cubs pitcher Justin Steele has encountered an unexpected setback in his rehabilitation following Tommy John surgery. Manager Craig Counsell announced on Tuesday that Steele has ceased his throwing program due to a left elbow flexor strain, casting uncertainty over his return to the rotation. This development is particularly concerning for the Cubs, as Steele's absence adds to the team's ongoing pitching woes.
Steele, a prominent left-hander for the Cubs, last saw action on April 7, 2025. He was progressing positively towards a potential return in late May or early June. However, the recent diagnosis of a flexor strain in his left elbow has put an immediate halt to his recovery efforts. He is scheduled for another re-evaluation in a month, which will provide more clarity on the timeline for his rehabilitation and potential comeback. The team is already without right-hander Cade Horton, who is also recovering from Tommy John surgery, further exacerbating the team's pitching challenges.
This current Tommy John surgery is not Steele's first experience with the procedure. The now 30-year-old hurler previously underwent the same operation during his time as a prospect within the Chicago farm system. Despite these past and present physical hurdles, Steele has consistently proven to be a valuable asset to the Cubs when healthy. In 2023, he earned an All-Star selection and finished fifth in the National League Cy Young Award voting, demonstrating his impact on the team's performance. Throughout his career, he boasts an impressive record of 32 wins and 22 losses, coupled with a solid 3.30 earned run average over 102 appearances, including 91 starts.
The current injury is a blow to both Steele's individual aspirations and the Cubs' aspirations for the ongoing season. The team will be closely monitoring his progress over the coming weeks as they await further updates on his re-evaluation. The prolonged absence of key pitchers like Steele will undoubtedly test the depth and resilience of the Cubs' pitching staff, requiring other members of the rotation and bullpen to step up in his stead. The focus now shifts to Steele's recovery and the team's ability to navigate the challenges presented by his renewed injury.
