Chicago Cubs left-handed pitcher Justin Steele reached a major milestone in his ongoing comeback on Friday by completing a bullpen session at the team’s facility in Mesa, Arizona. The following day, Steele announced that Dr. Keith Meister, his surgeon, has officially cleared him, confirming that his left elbow has healed after revision surgery.
The news marks an important phase in Steele’s rehabilitation process following his second significant elbow procedure. His recovery progress has generated considerable attention due to his impact on the Cubs’ rotation and his potential return timeline.
Details of Justin Steele’s Surgery and Rehabilitation
Justin Steele took to social media on Saturday to update fans about his progress and to express his gratitude. He shared a heartfelt message on X (formerly Twitter), reflecting on the journey back to full health.
Last bullet from my bullpen yesterday. Got cleared by Dr. Meister today. Good day for some reflection. Just wanna say thank you to everyone who’s helped me along this journey to getting back to 100%. Coaches, trainers, staff, family, and everything in between. You all know who you are and I truly appreciate you. Also wanna thank My Lord and Savior; Jesus Christ. Without them; none of this would be possible. Jesus is the only way and always has been.
— Justin Steele, Chicago Cubs pitcher
Steele’s latest surgery in April of last year was a revision to correct a previous ligament injury in his pitching elbow. This was his second major operation on the elbow, following an initial Tommy John surgery in 2017. Dr. Keith Meister, who performed both procedures, is recognized as one of the top sports surgeons specializing in this type of complex revision surgery. Dr. Meister also serves as the team surgeon for the Texas Rangers.
Because the procedure differs from a traditional Tommy John surgery, Steele’s recovery timetable is potentially shorter, allowing him to return between 12 and 15 months post-surgery, which aligns with the possibility of joining the Cubs rotation during the first half of the 2026 season.
Potential Role in Cubs’ Rotation and Team Depth
The Cubs currently have a deep pool of starting pitchers, lessening the urgency to rush Steele’s return. Manager Craig Counsell has confirmed there is no expectation for Steele to be ready by opening day, though a midseason return is feasible. The team’s rotation depth chart features seven healthy starters, including Shota Imanaga, Jameson Taillon, Edward Cabrera, Matthew Boyd, Cade Horton, Colin Rea, and Javier Assad. Additionally, long relievers Jordan Wicks and Ben Brown provide reliable options if needed as spot starters.
This depth allows the Cubs to carefully manage Steele’s reintegration, prioritizing his long-term health over an expedited comeback.
Justin Steele’s Performance Leading Up to Injury
Before his most recent injury, Steele made four starts during the 2025 season, posting a record of 3-1 with a 4.76 ERA. In 22.2 innings, he struck out 21 batters while walking five. His breakout year was in 2023, when he earned 16 wins against 5 losses, maintained a 3.06 ERA, and struck out 176 batters across 173.1 innings. His outstanding performance that season earned him a place on the National League All-Star team for the first time and landed him among the top five candidates for the Cy Young Award.
Drafted in the fifth round by the Cubs in 2014, Steele has compiled a career record of 32-22 over 102 games (91 starts) with 517 strikeouts and 155 walks in 506.2 innings pitched. He remains a highly valued asset for Chicago’s pitching staff once fully healthy.
Looking Ahead for Justin Steele and the Cubs
Steele’s clearance by Dr. Meister comes as a hopeful step toward his return to the mound, signaling that his lengthy and intense rehabilitation phase is nearing its conclusion. His recovery not only rejuvenates the Cubs’ pitching staff but also offers optimism for the season ahead, where his presence could significantly bolster the team’s rotation depth.
Cubs fans and the organization alike will monitor Steele’s progress closely to determine when he will be reintegrated into game action, with expectations cautiously set for a return sometime during the season’s first half. The careful approach is designed to ensure Steele’s durability and effectiveness over the long term.
Last bullet from my bullpen yesterday. Got cleared by Dr. Meister today. Good day for some reflection. Just wanna say thank you to everyone who’s helped me along this journey to getting back to 100% . Coaches, trainers, staff, family, and everything in between. You all know who… pic.twitter.com/hK6BKmIvYQ
— Justin Steele (@J_Steele21) February 28, 2026
