The Chicago Cubs are officially less than two weeks away from their 2025 MLB season debut when they take on the Los Angeles Dodgers in the 2025 Tokyo Series. There is already some concern about health being a factor, with third baseman Nico Hoerner out recovering from forearm surgery.

Chicago now have to consider the health of starting pitcher Justin Steele, who has been sick with the flu. This is not an illness a player should overcome, especially with the season opener in a few days. Steele was projected to start in Thursday’s Cactus League game against the Kansas City Royals. While Steele’s absence is noticeable, there is genuine concern that he could still be sick for the season opener.

Nonetheless, Cubs bench coach Ryan Flaherty talked about his illness and when he could be back on the field throwing. “He’s still on track,” Flaherty said. “Whether it is tomorrow, the next day or some point this weekend he’ll be able to throw again and shouldn’t change his outcome for his status in Japan for sure.”

Cubs bench coach Ryan Flaherty says Justin Steele will likely throw this weekend and that his illness should not impact his status in Japan. pic.twitter.com/Sdoz5eJX9s — Marquee Sports Network (@WatchMarquee) March 6, 2025 Steele has played in two spring training games. In those two games and five innings, Steele posted an ERA of 3.60, allowing four hits, two runs (including a home run), and no walks while recording strikeouts. He is looking to rebound from a 2024 season that saw multiple injuries. This came after a 2023 season in which he was named an All-Star for the first time in his career.

The 29-year-old is projected to be the starting pitcher for the second and final game of the Tokyo Series on March 19.