Cubs Pitcher Justin Steele Shares Major Update on Injury Recovery: What This Means for 2026

Chicago Cubs’ Hopeful Pitcher: Justin Steele’s Recovery Sets the Stage for a 2026 Comeback

The Chicago Cubs are heading into the 2026 MLB season with high hopes, particularly in regard to the health of one of their key pitchers, Justin Steele. The team made a conscious decision not to sign a marquee free-agent pitcher during the offseason, banking on Steele’s recovery from UCL (ulnar collateral ligament) surgery to bolster their rotation. As the Cubs’ first spring training game looms on the horizon, it appears that the plan to have Steele back in action is unfolding perfectly.

Steele, who was sidelined due to his elbow injury, shared some excellent news this week regarding his recovery. He has confirmed that he is well ahead of schedule in his rehabilitation process and is optimistic about returning to the mound shortly after the Cubs break camp in Arizona. This marks a significant development for both the pitcher and the Cubs, as Steele’s return could have a major impact on the team’s rotation.

The Road to Recovery: A Strong Start for Justin Steele

Before his injury, Steele was putting together an impressive 2025 season, compiling a 3-1 record with 21 strikeouts and a 1.14 WHIP in just 22 2/3 innings across four starts. However, the promising start was cut short when Steele was forced to shut things down due to the elbow injury that required UCL surgery. Prior to that, Steele had been a mainstay in the Cubs’ rotation, making at least 24 starts per season over the previous three years, including his standout 2023 All-Star campaign.

Now, it seems that the 30-year-old left-hander is well on his way to making a full recovery. Steele completed a bullpen session just last week and reported no ill effects from returning to the mound, which has to be a huge relief for Cubs fans and the team alike. According to Steele, the session went exceptionally well.

Steele’s Optimism: “It Felt Great”

Steele spoke about his recovery in an interview with Marquee Sports Network’s Elise Menaker at Cubs Convention last week, sharing his excitement about how things have been progressing. “It felt great,” Steele said when reflecting on his bullpen session. “I’ve been doing the normal throwing progression over the past however many months, and it’s been feeling really good. It felt back to normal, and I’m ready to start building the volume off the mound again.”

This is outstanding news for the Cubs, as they’ve been eagerly waiting for their ace pitcher to return to form. Steele has spent months working hard on his rehab, and it’s clear that he’s been making significant strides. With spring training approaching quickly, the Cubs are hoping that Steele will be ready to join the rotation soon.

The Fine Balance: Pacing the Return to Full Strength

However, as Steele himself acknowledges, the challenge now is not only physical but also mental. With pitchers and catchers set to report to Sloan Park in Mesa, Arizona in just a couple of weeks, Steele will need to carefully navigate his return to full strength. The Cubs’ first spring training game is scheduled for February 20 against their rivals, the Chicago White Sox, and Steele’s presence will be a key factor in determining the Cubs’ pitching plans for 2026.

“That’s going to be the tough part, during spring training,” Steele said. “The past however many spring trainings I’ve been like training, preparing and getting ready to go start the season, so it’s going to be an adjustment and watching everybody come in … and I’m going to want to leave with everybody, so that’s going to be an adjustment period, but it’ll be good.”

While it’s clear that Steele is eager to get back on the field, he’ll need to take it slow and allow his body to catch up to his enthusiasm. Rushing back too soon could jeopardize his recovery and the Cubs’ chances of having him at full strength for the season.

A Healthy Justin Steele Could Alter the Cubs’ Expectations for 2026

The Cubs’ hopes for 2026 largely hinge on the performance of their pitching staff, and Justin Steele is an integral part of those plans. Losing Steele to injury in 2025 was a blow, especially given his solid performances over the previous few seasons. Steele’s absence was particularly felt during the Cubs’ NLDS matchup against the Milwaukee Brewers, where they lacked a true ace to take the mound in pivotal moments. Chicago was forced to rely on a patchwork rotation in the postseason, which ultimately strained the bullpen and led to their early exit from the playoffs.

With a healthy Steele back in the rotation, the Cubs’ pitching staff could be significantly strengthened. Steele’s ability to consistently provide innings and keep runs off the board makes him one of the most valuable arms in the Cubs’ arsenal. His workhorse mentality and his proven track record, including an impressive 3.11 ERA and 20-12 record over 54 starts from 2022-24, make him a critical piece of the Cubs’ future.

In 2023, Steele finished fifth in the NL Cy Young voting, solidifying his reputation as one of the league’s top pitchers. He was the Cubs’ Opening Day starter in 2024 and also made a memorable start against the Los Angeles Dodgers in Tokyo that season. Even if Steele isn’t ready to start the season on Opening Day, his eventual return could significantly impact the Cubs’ ability to compete in a stacked NL arms race against teams like the Dodgers and New York Mets.

Steele’s Role in the Cubs’ Rotation: Will He Be Ready for the Season?

While Steele may not be fully ready for Chicago’s Opening Day lineup, his presence in the rotation later in the season will be crucial. If he isn’t quite ready for the home opener or even for the first month of the season, the Cubs will need to manage his recovery carefully to ensure he is at his best for the long haul.

But no matter when he returns, having Steele back in the fold is important for the Cubs as they look to solidify their standing in the National League. Whether he’s ready for the opening homestand or joins the rotation in late April or May, Steele’s return could provide the Cubs with the boost they need to compete in a highly competitive division.

Looking Ahead: What Does the Future Hold for Steele and the Cubs?

For Steele, 2026 will be a season of redemption. After a frustrating injury setback, he is eager to return to his dominant form. The Cubs’ front office and coaching staff will be watching closely during spring training, hoping to see their star pitcher pick up right where he left off.

For Cubs fans, the return of Justin Steele is a reason to be optimistic. His recovery from surgery may have taken some time, but it looks like the wait will be worth it. If Steele can stay healthy and return to his previous form, the Cubs could have a dynamic, ace-caliber pitcher back in their rotation—something they’ve been missing for far too long.

Final Thoughts: Cubs’ Pitching Future Looks Bright with Steele’s Return

Justin Steele’s recovery is one of the most positive developments for the Cubs heading into the 2026 season. If he can stay healthy and build upon his strong foundation, Steele could become the ace the Cubs have long needed. For now, the Cubs will be watching closely as he ramps up his training, hoping that his recovery stays on track and that he is ready to take the mound when the team needs him most. With Steele leading the charge, the Cubs could be primed for a successful season that could see them finally return to postseason glory.