Chicago Cubs may reinstate Justin Steele for last series of regular season
The Chicago Cubs are considering activating pitcher Justin Steele for their final regular-season series. Steele, a former All-Star, has been rehabbing with Triple-A Iowa, making four appearances in September. He has not pitched in the majors since April 2025.
The Cubs’ decision to potentially bring Justin Steele back for the final series of the regular season signals a cautious step in his recovery from a long absence. Steele, who last pitched in the majors in April 2025, has been building arm strength through four rehab outings with Triple-A Iowa in September. His return would come at a time when the team is likely evaluating roster depth and player readiness for the offseason, though the exact stakes of the series are not specified. For a former All-Star, even a brief late-season appearance could serve as a meaningful checkpoint for his health and future role.
This story could affect Cubs fans and the team’s front office, as Steele’s potential activation may influence postseason planning or trade decisions, depending on how he performs. For the player, a successful return could restore confidence and market value, while a setback might raise questions about durability. More broadly, it highlights how teams manage injured stars late in the season, balancing competitive urgency with long-term player health—a dynamic that resonates with audiences following roster moves and player welfare.