Justin Steele Activated from 60-Day IL, Vows to “Return the Favor” After Tommy John Surgery.vc

In a strategic, mandatory roster move, the Cubs have activated their ace. Steele, recovering from Tommy John, vows to “come back stronger” and make his recovery worth the wait.

In a surprising move that has Cubs fans buzzing, Justin Steele, the left-handed pitcher recovering from Tommy John surgery, has been activated from the 60-day injured list.

After a setback earlier this year that required surgery in late April, it was widely expected that Steele would miss the entirety of the 2025 season and likely be sidelined until at least the second half of 2026. However, in a strategic roster move this week following the conclusion of the World Series, the Cubs made a significant shift.

What’s Behind the Cubs’ Decision to Activate Steele?

So why did the Cubs make this move now? The timing is key. Major League Baseball mandates that every team must clear up their rosters after the World Series. This clean-up includes activating injured players, adjusting contract statuses, and ensuring all roster spots are filled.

Essentially, MLB teams must bring injured players, including those on the 60-day IL, back onto the 40-man roster, regardless of their health status.

For the Cubs, this meant they had no choice but to activate Steele. The move, however, was met with a wave of optimism from the pitcher himself, who sent a message to the fanbase.

“This isn’t just about coming back from surgery. It’s about coming back stronger, proving that I’m not done yet,” Steele said. “The Cubs have invested in me, and I’m ready to return the favor when I step back on that mound.”

Why Steele’s Activation is More Than Just a Roster Move

While procedural, Steele’s activation is a significant marker. By moving him to the 60-day IL back in April, the Cubs were able to open up a 40-man roster spot. With the World Series now over, the team was required to bring Steele back.

Fortunately for Chicago, this move didn’t require any additional cuts. The Cubs had only 29 players on the 40-man roster after several players officially became free agents, allowing them to activate Steele without sacrificing any other players.

Free Agency Frenzy: Cubs Ready to Make Moves

In addition to Steele’s activation, the Cubs are now positioning themselves for a flurry of offseason activity. Several key players are now free agents, including:

• Kyle Tucker
• Ryan Brasier
• Brad Keller
• Aaron Civale
• Carlos Santana

The Cubs have already begun their roster adjustments, trading pitcher Andrew Kittredge back to the Baltimore Orioles for cash considerations.

What’s Next for Justin Steele?

While Steele’s return to the mound is still a ways off, his activation signals a long-term commitment to his recovery. His words have become a rallying cry for the team, which sees his recovery not as a setback, but as an opportunity for the Cubs’ future.