Cubs Pitcher Nearing Return Just in Time for MLB Playoffs

Justin Steele nears a Cubs return.

by Miracle Dimwesh

Sep 23, 2026

Chicago Cubs manager Craig Counsell (11)

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Chicago Cubs pitcher Justin Steele is nearing a potential return to the majors after completing his minor league rehabilitation assignment.

Manager Craig Counsell said Steele is an option to join the Cubs for their final regular-season series against the Boston Red Sox, according to Tony Andracki. Steele is scheduled to throw a bullpen session Wednesday before the Cubs determine whether he will travel with the team to Boston.

Steele has not pitched in the majors this season after beginning the year on the 60-day injured list. The left-hander has spent much of the past two seasons recovering from a serious elbow injury and a subsequent flexor strain.

Steele’s latest rehab outing came Friday with Triple-A Iowa, when he threw two hitless innings and struck out five batters. He made four appearances during his rehab assignment, recording 11 strikeouts across 7.2 innings.

The Cubs will have to determine how Steele can contribute if he is activated with the postseason approaching. Given the timing of his potential return, Counsell has indicated that Steele would not immediately step back into a starting role.

Instead, Steele could provide the Cubs with another left-handed option out of the bullpen during the final days of the regular season and into October. His previous experience as a starter could also give Chicago a pitcher capable of handling more than a traditional one-inning relief appearance if necessary.

Chicago Cubs manager Craig Counsell (11)

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Steele was one of the National League’s better starters in 2023, when he went 16-5 with a 3.06 ERA and finished fifth in NL Cy Young Award voting. He followed that season with another strong campaign before his elbow injury interrupted his progress.

The Cubs have already secured a postseason berth, but the final games of the regular season will help determine their playoff position. If Steele completes Wednesday’s bullpen session without a setback, Chicago could have another experienced arm available as it prepares for October.