Justin Steele’s Elbow Surgery Ends His Season

Chicago Cubs ace Justin Steele is set to undergo season-ending surgery on his left elbow, dealing a significant blow to the team’s pitching rotation. The 29-year-old left-hander will have the procedure to address issues with his flexor tendon and ulnar collateral ligament (UCL), raising concerns about his availability for the start of the 2026 season.

Steele’s elbow troubles have been an ongoing issue. Earlier this month, he was placed on the 15-day injured list due to left elbow tendinitis, despite a strong performance where he pitched seven scoreless innings with eight strikeouts against the Texas Rangers. This condition mirrors the tendinitis he experienced in September 2024, which had previously sidelined him for a portion of the season.

The upcoming surgery will be Steele’s second Tommy John procedure. While the first surgery occurred earlier in his career, the recurrence of elbow issues has raised concerns about his long-term durability. The recovery process is expected to extend into the 2026 season, potentially impacting his availability for the Cubs’ rotation.

In Steele’s absence, the Cubs are exploring options to fill the void in their rotation. Colin Rea is expected to step in as a starter, taking over Steele’s scheduled start against the Dodgers. Additionally, the team is considering call-ups from Triple-A Iowa, including Jordan Wicks, who recently impressed with three perfect innings in relief. Cade Horton is another potential candidate, though he may require more development time in the minors before making the jump to the majors.

Steele’s absence presents a significant challenge for the Cubs, who will need to adjust their pitching strategy to remain competitive in the National League Central. The team will rely on its depth and adaptability to navigate the remainder of the season without their ace left-hander.