Justin Steele

Justin Steele told reporters he’s targeting a return to the Cubs’ rotation in May or June.

Fantasy Impact

Steele added that his recovery from UCL surgery is on track and has been cleared to start throwing curveballs in his bullpen sessions.

Justin Steele has progressed to 30-pitch bullpen sessions.

Fantasy Impact

Steele is recovering from a UCL injury that was repaired with an internal brace. He is targeting a May or June return to the mound.

Justin Steele (elbow) is making progress on his recovery from UCL revision surgery and took a major step forward by throwing off a mound for the first time last week.

Fantasy Impact

Steele was limited to four starts last season before going under the knife in mid-April. The lefthander went 3-1 with a 4.76 ERA prior to the injury. Steele finished fifth in the NL Cy Young voting in 2023 after going 16-5 with a 3.06 ERA in 30 starts with the Cubs. With Chicago's deep rotation, it is expected that the team will be cautious with Steele's timeline and he may end up on a season-long innings restriction. But, his imminent return will be a welcomed sight.

Justin Steele has agreed to a one-year, $6.77 million extension with the Cubs.

Fantasy Impact

Steele will avoid arbitration heading into the 2026 season. He is recovering from Tommy John surgery, but is expected to return to the Cubs' rotation in the first half of the season.

Cubs manager Craig Counsell said at the Winter Meetings that Justin Steele will likely return in the first half of next season.

Fantasy Impact

Steele suffered a season-ending injury all the way back in April of last season. He won't be ready for Opening Day next year, but he isn't expected to miss too much time in the season.