The Cubs' season has been a rollercoaster ride, but the recent news about Justin Steele is a welcome development. Steele, the left-handed pitcher who was an All-Star and Cy Young contender in 2023, has been out all season following left elbow surgery and a subsequent setback. However, the team is now optimistic that he will return to the mound in early August, providing a much-needed boost to the Cubs' pitching rotation.
Steele's journey back to the mound has been a long and challenging one. After undergoing surgery in April of last year, he encountered a setback in April of this year, forcing a shutdown period. Despite the setbacks, Steele has remained determined and focused on his recovery. He has been working hard to regain his form and is now on track to make a comeback.
The Cubs' manager, Craig Counsell, has been closely monitoring Steele's progress and is relieved to report that everything is looking good. Counsell noted that Steele met with Dr. Keith Meister on Tuesday and everything checked out well, giving the lefty some peace of mind and clearance to continue building up in his throwing program. Barring any setbacks, Steele is on a path to get back on a mound in early August.
Steele's return is significant for the Cubs, as he was a key player in the team's success last season. His ability to pitch effectively and consistently will be a huge boost to the team's chances of winning games. However, the Cubs' president of baseball operations, Jed Hoyer, has indicated that Steele is not expected to return as a starting pitcher this season. Instead, he is likely to come back as a reliever, which is a more realistic option given the team's schedule and the need to manage his workload.
Steele's return is a testament to his resilience and determination. Despite the setbacks and challenges, he has remained focused on his goal of returning to the mound and competing. His optimism and positive attitude have been a source of inspiration for the team and fans alike.
In my opinion, Steele's return is a significant development for the Cubs and a positive sign for the team's future. His ability to pitch effectively and consistently will be a huge boost to the team's chances of winning games. However, the team needs to be smart and manage his workload carefully to ensure that he remains healthy and effective. Overall, Steele's return is a welcome development and a reason for the Cubs and fans to be optimistic about the team's future.
