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Justin Steele nears Cubs return but faces long rehab process

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 25, 2026, 12:33 AM

Last updated Aug 25, 2026

Justin Steele nears Cubs return but faces long rehab process

Summary

Chicago Cubs left-hander Justin Steele is close to returning to major-league action following elbow surgery in April 2025. After dealing with a flexor strain earlier this spring, Steele is participating in live batting practice and is expected to begin a rehab assignment soon. Cubs manager Craig Counsell emphasized the need for a cautious approach, stating that Steele has a long way to go before returning to the mound. The Cubs are hoping Steele can provide assistance in a relief role, particularly if they advance to the postseason.

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Status Watch

•Steele is recovering from April 2025 elbow surgery.
•He had a setback with a flexor strain earlier this spring.
•Steele is scheduled to throw live batting practice on Tuesday and Friday.
•Counsell cautioned that Steele needs to pitch in rehab games before returning.
•Ben Brown is also nearing a return from injury.

Latest Updates

12:33 AMYahoo Sports — Chicago Cubs pitcher Justin Steele eyes late-season return — but Craig Counsell cautions lefty has a ways to go

What they're saying

"
PHOENIX — Left-hander Justin Steele had this Chicago Cubs series in Arizona circled for a while. Steele’s journey to get back to the Cubs following April 2025 elbow surgery hit a setback this spring when he suffered a flexor strain, significantly prolonging the rehab process. Steele is around the team this week during the Cubs’ three-game series against the Diamondbacks as he moves closer to ...
— Yahoo Sports

Related Teams & Leagues

Arizona Diamondbacks Chicago Cubs MLB Baseball