Full Breakdown
Justin Steele’s Flexor Strain Shuts Down Cubs’ Pitching Hope
4/29/2026, 4:15:33 AM
Injury Update: Flexor Strain Diagnosis
Left-hander Justin Steele, Chicago’s former All-Star starter, was diagnosed on April 28, 2026 with a flexor strain in his left elbow. Manager Craig Counsell confirmed Steele has been shut down from throwing and will be re-evaluated in about a month, pushing back the team’s target of a late-May or early-June return.
Injury History and Cubs Pitching Situation
Steele’s setback follows Tommy John surgery in 2017 and a UCL reconstruction in April 2024. He posted a 16-5 record with a 3.06 ERA and 176 strikeouts in 2023, then a 3.07 ERA over 134 2/3 innings in 2024. Chicago now lists ten pitchers on the injured list, seven relievers, and also placed Cade Horton on the IL after his own Tommy John surgery. Despite the depth crisis, the Cubs have won 11 of their last 15 games and sit 1½ games behind the NL Central lead.
Timeline of Steele’s Recent Injuries
- 2017 – Tommy John surgery (left elbow).
- April 2024 – UCL reconstruction, ending 2024 season.
- 2024 season – 24 starts, 3.07 ERA.
- April 28 2026 – Flexor strain diagnosed; shut down.
- Late May 2026 – Planned re-evaluation.
Impact on Rotation and Playoff Race
Steele was expected to anchor Chicago’s rotation, but his delayed return forces the Cubs to lean on less-experienced starters and a depleted bullpen, limiting depth as the team approaches the second half. The timing coincides with a crucial NL Central stretch, raising concerns about maintaining the recent surge.
Official Statements & Responses
Counsell called the injury an undeniable setback that will extend Steele’s timeline, but stressed the club remains optimistic, noting there is no indication he will miss the entire season. He urged Steele to stay positive despite the mental challenges of rehab.
Verbatim Quotes
- “This is a place that's hard because there's not much you can say to make a person feel better in this situation,” — Craig Counsell, Chicago Cubs manager
- “It’s a setback, there’s no question about it, and it’s going to lengthen his return to play,” — Craig Counsell
- “Like, we didn’t get news that Justin is out for the year.” — Craig Counsell
- “The grind of a rehab, unfortunately, can do this to you. You don't have a choice but to kind of take it in and try to go have a good day tomorrow. Today was obviously not a good day for Justin. But I think that's the attitude he's going to take. It's your only choice, really, in this thing.” — Craig Counsell
What’s Next
Steele will receive a medical review in roughly a month, after which Chicago will set a revised return timetable. In the meantime, the Cubs will rely on emerging starters and bullpen depth while navigating a pivotal NL Central stretch. The organization hopes to avoid further setbacks and position Steele for a second-half comeback.
