The Chicago Cubs community is buzzing with electric optimism after Justin Steele shared a stunning update on his journey back to the mound. Over the weekend, the 2023 All-Star posted a video on social media showcasing his first significant throwing session since undergoing April 2025 elbow surgery.
“Feelin’ good,” Steele captioned the clip, which has already racked up 4,000,000 views from a starved fanbase. While he isn’t throwing from full distance yet, the sight of the 30-year-old southpaw ramping up his activity marks a monumental milestone in his 12-to-18 month recovery.
Manager Craig Counsell confirmed during the Winter Meetings that while an Opening Day start is unlikely, the “Bulldog” of the rotation is targeting a first-half 2026 return. This “encouraging glimpse” has shifted the team’s entire strategy, potentially saving the front office $100,000,000 in free-agent bidding.
Justin Steele, the longest-tenured player in the organization, has faced two major elbow procedures but remains the heart of the pitching staff. His breakthrough 16-win season in 2023 proved he is a Cy Young caliber talent, making his healthy return the Cubs’ biggest “acquisition” of the year.
The emotional impact on Wrigley Field cannot be overstated, as over 5,000,000 impressions flooded the “#SteeleReturn” hashtag within hours. Fans are already circling May 2026 on their calendars, hoping to see the lefty anchor a rotation that desperately needs his 3.18 career ERA.
As the snow falls in Chicago, the heat is rising in Arizona where Steele continues his relentless rehab. His steady progress provides a “message of hope,” proving that even after the darkest injury setbacks, the North Side ace is ready to reclaim his pinstripe throne.
