Justin Steele Feeling ‘Crispy’ in Return to Mound
Lefty Justin Steele made only four starts in 2025 before going down to an injury that required an internal brace revision of his previous UCL reconstruction and repair of his flexor tendon. The rehab timeline for that type of procedure is often significantly shorter than full Tommy John, with some athletes returning to play in six months or less. That’s very ambitious and the Cubs aren’t going to rush Steele, but his recovery looks to be progressing very well.
He went off the mound for the second time on Tuesday and reported feeling “crispy,” which is a good thing.
2nd time off the bump today! Felt crispy. Any guesses on the velo from this flick? ? pic.twitter.com/i2qBgK8jnZ
— Justin Steele (@J_Steele21) January 20, 2026
Steele shared another video of himself movin’ and groovin’ on Thursday in Mesa. Even though he’s clearly not at full effort, it’s a very good sign that he’s able to throw again in relatively short order.
Movin and a groovin ? pic.twitter.com/7TcYpWCN45
— Justin Steele (@J_Steele21) January 22, 2026
The Cubs have yet to say anything concrete about the timeline for Steele’s return, though Craig Counsell did say he was expected back at some point in the first half. Camp will open in about three weeks, then the Cubs play their first Cactus League game on February 20. Their home opener against the Nationals is on March 26, which is exactly eight weeks from this article’s publication.
While Steele could theoretically be physically ready by that point, it’s far more likely that he’ll remain at extended spring training to prep for a few rehab starts in the minors. He’ll almost certainly start the season on the IL, so which duration the Cubs opt for will clarify the projection for his return. The 60-day IL opens when pitchers and catchers report, but the clock doesn’t start running until Opening Day. That would mean a return in late May at the very earliest.
Going on the 15-day IL would allow Steele to return sooner if he’s ready, but it doesn’t free up a 40-man spot. Assuming the Cubs want to slow-play this, especially with Edward Cabrera providing more depth, the 60-day IL seems likely. That gives them plenty of runway to ensure Steele is fully ramped up without being so prolonged that they’d run into issues in the event of a significant setback with another starter.
