The Chicago Cubs have been dealt a significant blow with the news that left-handed pitcher Justin Steele will miss the remainder of the 2025 MLB season due to elbow surgery. Initially diagnosed with tendinitis, further imaging revealed a more severe issue, prompting the decision for surgery.
Steele, 29, has been a cornerstone of the Cubs’ pitching staff. In 2023, he earned All-Star honors and finished fifth in the National League Cy Young Award voting with a 16-5 record and a 3.06 ERA. This season, he posted a 3-1 record with a 4.76 ERA in four starts, despite allowing a league-high five home runs.
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This injury marks Steele’s second Tommy John procedure, the first occurring in 2017. The recurrence of elbow issues raises concerns about his long-term health and availability for future seasons.
In Steele’s absence, the Cubs will rely on their existing rotation, including Shota Imanaga, Jameson Taillon, Matthew Boyd, Ben Brown, and newly added Colin Rea. The team is also exploring trade options to strengthen their pitching staff, with Miami’s Sandy Alcántara emerging as a potential target.
Manager Craig Counsell expressed optimism regarding Steele’s recovery, acknowledging the challenges while praising the pitcher’s attitude. The Cubs organization and fans alike remain hopeful for Steele’s return to form in the coming seasons
