The Chicago Cubs are carefully weighing whether left-handed pitcher Justin Steele will make a dramatic return during their final regular-season series. President of baseball operations Jed Hoyer noted that simply having Steele in this late-season discussion is a massive victory for the organization.
Fans keeping up with Baseball News know that a potential comeback would provide a massive boost to the pitching staff. The franchise must balance this exciting possibility against their ongoing postseason aspirations and external factors.
Evaluating the Recovery Timeline
Steele recently completed a promising Minor League rehab stint with Triple-A Iowa to test his arm. His final tune-up culminated in two dominant, no-hit innings featuring five strikeouts against Omaha.
The 31-year-old hurler has missed significant time after undergoing grueling left elbow surgery back in April 2025. This major procedure was unfortunately followed by a persistent flexor strain setback earlier this year.
Assessing the Rehab Performance
Throughout September, the determined southpaw made four crucial rehab appearances to build back his stamina. He finished this stretch posting a 4.70 ERA with 11 strikeouts and just one walk over 7 2/3 innings of work.
If he manages to return before the final game concludes, club officials indicated he would likely pitch strictly out of the bullpen. This specialized usage would help protect his surgically repaired arm while still delivering impact relief.
Steele is currently traveling with the Major League team in Chicago and is scheduled to throw a bullpen session on Wednesday. This upcoming workout will serve as the ultimate litmus test for his readiness.
Cubs manager Craig Counsell expressed strong encouragement regarding Steele’s successful performance and overall physical progress. The skipper was particularly pleased with how the veteran pitcher handled his final strenuous outing.
Weighing Strategic Roster Decisions
The front office must still balance Steele’s potential inclusion with broader team considerations down the stretch. Critical factors include their intense National League Wild Card push and unfavorable weekend weather forecasts.
Supporters of the historic Chicago Cubs understand that every roster move is magnified at this stage of the year. Management is leaving no stone unturned as they finalize their pitching blueprint.
Other players, such as right-hander Trent Thornton, are also currently with the big-league club in Chicago. Meanwhile, several organizational depth pieces remain ready and waiting at the facility in Arizona.
Whether Steele toes the rubber one last time this season remains to be seen in the coming days. His journey back from the brink serves as an inspiration for the entire clubhouse.
Here is the source article for this story: Cubs determining next steps for Steele as regular season nears finish line
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