The Chicago Cubs made some strategic moves as they finalized their Opening Day roster, creating space on the 40-man roster. Michael Conforto, Dylan Carlson, and Scott Kingery, who were non-roster invitees during spring training, have earned their spots on the active squad. Fans have been aware that Justin Steele's season debut was delayed, but now there's a clearer timeline for his return.
Steele has been placed on the 60-day injured list, sidelining him until at least the final week of May. This aligns with previous expectations that he would return between late May and early June.
In a notable roster adjustment, right-handed reliever Jack Neely was designated for assignment. Neely, acquired from the Yankees in 2024 in exchange for Mark Leiter Jr., showed promise with high strikeout numbers but struggled with command in Triple-A last year. The Cubs are waiting to see if Neely clears waivers, which would allow them to assign him to Triple-A.
Tyler Austin, who recently joined the Cubs after playing in Japan, has also been placed on the 60-day injured list following knee surgery. This unfortunate turn of events will keep him off the field for several months.
Seiya Suzuki finds himself on the 10-day injured list, retroactive to March 22. If his recovery goes smoothly, Suzuki could be back in action by April 1, potentially missing only five games.
Pitchers Porter Hodge and Jordan Wicks are starting the season on the 15-day injured list as well.
Justin Steele, who missed most of the 2025 season due to left-elbow surgery, has shared a promising update. The 30-year-old pitcher has been cleared by his surgeon and is back to full strength, ready to ramp up his spring training activities. This development could mean Steele's return to the Cubs' rotation might happen sooner than initially expected.
Steele underwent UCL revision surgery last April, a procedure with a shorter recovery time than Tommy John surgery. He shared his progress on social media, including a video of his recent throwing session in Arizona.
Steele was a cornerstone of the Cubs' rotation from 2022 to 2024, consistently delivering strong performances:
- 2022: 24 starts, 3.18 ERA, 119 IP, 24.6 K%
- 2023: 30 starts, 3.06 ERA, 173.1 IP, 24.6 K%
- 2024: 24 starts, 3.07 ERA, 134.2 IP, 24.3 K%
His return is poised to bolster the Cubs' rotation, enhancing their postseason prospects. Fans and the team alike are hopeful that Steele's recovery continues smoothly, marking a significant step forward for both him and the Cubs.