Chicago Cubs left-hander Justin Steele is working toward a return from an elbow injury that has sidelined him for more than a year. The 30-year-old pitcher, who has not appeared in a game since early in the 2025 season, remains hopeful about his ability to contribute to the team later this year.

Steele, a 2023 All-Star and the Cubs’ Opening Day starter in 2024, sustained a flexor strain in his pitching arm during the 2026 ramp-up for his comeback. The injury occurred after he had been building back strength and velocity, throwing pitches up to 93 mph. This setback follows a previous reconstructive elbow surgery he underwent in 2025, which limited him to just 91 major league starts over his career.

During an interview at Wrigley Field, Steele expressed cautious optimism but acknowledged the unpredictable nature of his recovery. “I can do my best to take care of my body, put myself in the best positions possible and work my tail off, but some things are just going to happen,” he said. He added that despite the uncertainty, his confidence in his ability to regain form remains strong, emphasizing that he’s the “same person, the same pitcher.”

Cubs president of baseball operations Jed Hoyer has communicated hope about Steele’s potential midseason return but refrained from full optimism. Manager Craig Counsell echoed the sentiment, noting that Steele still has “enough runway” to make an impact if no further arm problems arise.

Steele’s injury timeline began on April 7, 2025, when he first felt discomfort during a strong pitching performance against the Texas Rangers. Despite his fastball maintaining velocity in the low 90s and striking out eight batters that night, he sensed something was wrong. That night marked the last time he would record an out in a major league game for an extended period.

As the Cubs contend with ongoing challenges, Steele’s possible return could provide a timely boost. Reflecting on a similar comeback story involving former Cub Kyle Schwarber, who returned from a lengthy absence to play pivotal postseason baseball, Steele envisions himself contributing if he can stay healthy. “If we continue to win series, keep winning enough games and get to the point where I’m back in games out there, I think the possibilities are endless,” he said.

Off the field, Steele has found unexpected positives during his time away. His wife, Libby, battles Lyme disease, and the pitcher cherishes the extra time he has spent with their young children, including a newborn. He described this period as a “blessing in disguise,” allowing him to enjoy moments he might otherwise have missed.

While his focus remains on returning to the mound, Steele has also begun contemplating life after baseball, envisioning quieter days fishing with his children in Mississippi. Yet for now, he is eager to resume competing and help the Cubs as the season unfolds. “I am extremely ready to get back out there and compete again,” he said.