Cubs' Justin Steele Ahead of Schedule in Injury Comeback

Justin Steele just shared exciting news with Cubs fans: he's throwing off a mound again and feeling great after season-ending elbow surgery last April.

The 30-year-old left-hander posted a video from the Cubs' Arizona training complex this week with the caption "Movin and a groovin." It marks his first mound work since undergoing revision surgery on his ulnar collateral ligament nine months ago.

Even better news? Steele says his recovery has been completely smooth sailing.

"There hasn't really been any hiccups at all through this process," Steele told reporters. "It's felt good the entire time. If anything, we're ahead of schedule."

Cubs general manager Carter Hawkins couldn't hide his excitement about getting back a pitcher of Steele's caliber. "It's a heck of a boost to have a guy that's a top of the rotation-type talent that potentially could come in here and be that for us later in the year," he said.

Steele earned that praise with his breakout 2023 season when he went 16-5 with a 3.06 ERA, made the All-Star team, and finished fifth in National League Cy Young Award voting. He struck out 176 batters while walking just 36 in 173 innings.

The lefty started 2024 strong too, posting a nearly identical 3.07 ERA over 24 starts before his elbow ended his season. His injury came after a gutsy seven shutout innings in near-freezing temperatures against Texas last April.

Why This Inspires

Steele's approach to his comeback shows real wisdom beyond his years. Rather than rushing back for Opening Day glory, he's thinking about October baseball and what his team needs most.

"That definitely eases your mind, knowing that it's not a race to get back for Opening Day," Steele explained. His surgeon Dr. Keith Meister will likely recommend an innings limit for 2026, so the pitcher and team are doing the math to have him fresh for a potential playoff run.

Manager Craig Counsell has already ruled out Opening Day but said the first half remains possible barring setbacks. An optimistic timeline puts Steele back on the mound sometime in May.

The Cubs are building something special with their rotation, bringing back Shota Imanaga and adding Edward Cabrera from the Marlins. Getting Steele back healthy will make them even more dangerous.

For now, Steele continues his work in Arizona, steadily building strength and preparing for his return to the Wrigley Field mound where Cubs fans can't wait to welcome him back.