Cubs pitcher Justin Steele begins rehab assignment following long injury absence

Chicago Cubs pitcher Justin Steele is scheduled to begin a rehab assignment on Wednesday. The All-Star left-hander has not appeared in a major league game since April 7, 2025, after undergoing elbow surgery and dealing with a flexor strain. While the team remains in contention for the National League Central title, officials suggest that a full return to the starting rotation may not be feasible this season. The organization is considering integrating him into the bullpen to bolster a pitching staff that has allowed the fourth-most home runs in the league this year. Steele previously recorded the lowest home runs allowed per nine innings in the National League during the 2023 season. He must clear several performance hurdles during his minor league assignment before potentially joining the active roster for a postseason role in October.

• 1:16 PMYahoo Sports — Cubs All-Star Pitcher Starting Rehab Assignment After Not Pitching Since April 2025