Justin Steele Injury News & Updates

Steele won't start Sunday against the Brewers after the Cubs were eliminated from playoff contention Saturday, Tim Stebbins of MLB.comreports.

The Cubs stumbled down the stretch and are no longer in postseason contention, so they won't send out their ace for the final game of the season. Steele struggled over his final three outings with 15 runs allowed, but he was in the thick of the race for the NL Cy Young Award for most of the campaign and will finish his third year in MLB with a 3.06 ERA, 1.17 WHIP and 176:36 K:BB over 173.1 innings.

Steele did not factor into the decision Tuesday, allowing three runs on six hits and a walk over 5.1 innings against Atlanta. He struck out six.

Steele held Atlanta off the board through five innings Tuesday before surrendering three runs in the sixth. Chicago's bullpen would ultimately squander a three-run lead, leaving Steele with a no-decision. Despite a tough finish, it was a step in the right direction for the left-hander after he allowed six runs in each of his prior two outings. Steele will carry a 3.06 ERA, 1.17. WHIP and 176 strikeouts into his final start of the regular season, currently scheduled for this weekend in Milwaukee.

Steele (16-5) allowed six runs on eight hits and struck out six without walking a batter over three-plus innings, taking the loss Wednesday versus the Pirates.

Steele was cruising through three innings, but he allowed six straight singles to open the fourth. That produced four runs, and two more were tacked onto Steele's line when Jose Cuas allowed a three-run home run to Josh Palacios. It appears Steele may be wearing down late in the year, as he's allowed 12 runs over his last nine innings while taking back-to-back losses for the first time. He's throw 168 innings this year, 49 more than his previous high in a season, which was set last year. Despite this poor outing, he still has a 3.00 ERA, 1.17 WHIP and 170:35 K:BB over 29 starts. The southpaw is projected for a challenging road start in Atlanta next week.

Steele (16-4) allowed six runs on seven hits and two walks while striking out five over six innings to take the loss Friday versus the Diamondbacks.

The six runs allowed matched Steele's season high, as well as the total of runs he gave up over his last 33 innings across five starts. The loss was his first since July 16, and it was just the third time all year he's allowed multiple home runs. Steele is now at a 2.73 ERA, 1.14 WHIP and 164:35 K:BB through 165 innings over 28 starts. He's lined up for a favorable home start versus the Pirates next week.

Steele allowed just one run on six hits across seven innings but did not factor into the decision Saturday against the Diamondbacks. He had no walks and struck out six.

Steele dazzled, but the Cubs managed just one run while he was in there and only two for the whole game as they fell in 10 innings. The lefty was excellent nonetheless, and over his last five starts he has a 1.36 ERA with 39 strikeouts across 33 innings. For the season, Steele has a stellar 2.49 ERA, and he's firmly in the NL Cy Young race. He'll look to keep rolling and pick up his 17th win in his next scheduled start, which is penciled in for Friday against these same Diamondbacks.

Steele (16-3) earned the win Monday against the Giants, striking out 12 over eight shutout innings . He scattered two hits and two walks.

Steele shined in front of the holiday crowd at Wrigley Field, notching a career-high 12 punchouts. The one-time All-Star now has seven wins in his last nine starts, dating back to July 21. He has produced a 2.64 ERA and 66 strikeouts in 54.2 innings over that span.

Steele (15-3) earned the win Tuesday, allowing six hits and one walk over six scoreless innings against the Brewers. He struck out eight.

Steele collected his third straight quality start Tuesday, holding the Brewers scoreless across six innings of action while fanning eight batters. Though the southpaw has only gone deeper than 6.1 innings twice this season, he's surrendered three or fewer earned runs in 14 consecutive appearances. Steele boasts a 2.69 ERA and a 141:31 K:BB across 144 innings on the year and is expected to take on the Reds at Great American Ball Park for his next outing.

Steele did not factor into the decision Thursday, allowing three runs (two earned) on six hits and two walks over six innings against the Pirates. He struck out six.

Steele hasn't allowed more than three earned runs in a start since May 26. Though he came away with a no-decision Thursday, the 28-year-old southpaw's logged quality starts in nine of his last 11 outings. Steele's 14-3 on the season with a 1.17 WHIP and 133:30 K:BB across 24 starts (138 innings). He's currently lined up for a home matchup with the Brewers in his next outing early next week.

Steele (14-3) earned the win Saturday, allowing two runs on six hits over six innings against the Royals. He struck out seven.

Steele found himself in some trouble after giving up back-to-back hits to open the second inning but managed to retire the next three batters as the Royals got one run across. The right-hander surrendered only three more hits from that point on while striking out seven batters for the third start in a row. Steele has now won his last five decisions (spanning six starts) and eight of his last nine. He has not allowed more than three earned runs since May 26 and his 14 wins have him tied with Spencer Strider for the major league lead.

Steele did not factor into the decision Saturday, allowing three runs on six hits over five innings against the Blue Jays, while striking out seven.

Steele didn't have his best stuff Saturday, allowing at least one hit in four of his five innings of work, including a two-run home to Whit Merrifield in the bottom of the fifth to bring the Blue Jays back within one run of Chicago. The lefty had won each of his last four decisions coming in and has now allowed three runs in three straight outings to open the month of August. On a positive note, Steele did not issue a walk Saturday for the second time in his last three starts, putting together a solid 20:4 K:BB over that stretch.

Steele (13-3) allowed four runs (three earned) on eight hits and four walks while striking out seven over 5.1 innings to earn the win over Atlanta on Sunday.

Steele has allowed no fewer than seven baserunners in each of his last four starts, but he's emerged with a win in each of them. His four walks Sunday matched his season high. While he's been shaky of late, the left-hander is still at a solid 2.75 ERA with a 1.18 WHIP and 113:28 K:BB through 121 innings over 21 starts this season. He's projected for a road outing in Toronto his next time out.

Steele (12-3) earned the win Tuesday, allowing five runs (four earned) on nine hits and struck out six without walking a batter over six innings in a 20-9 win over Cincinnati.

Steele was the beneficiary of an offensive explosion Tuesday, as the Cubs put up 20 runs on Cincinnati. The 28-year-old lefty wasn't particularly sharp in this one, but he threw 73 of 101 pitches for strikes and did enough to earn his 12th victory, tying him for the league lead. Prior to this start, Steele hadn't allowed more than three earned runs in an outing since May 26, going 5-1 with a 2.01 ERA, 1.12 WHIP and 43:8 K:BB across 44.2 innings during that stretch. He is projected to make his next start at home versus Atlanta.

Steele (11-3) earned the win Thursday, allowing a run on five hits and three walks over six innings in a 10-3 win over St. Louis. He struck out four.

Steele is now 5-1 over his last seven starts, with a 3.24 ERA in that span. The 28-year-old southpaw allowed just one run Thursday on an Andrew Knizner homer in the fifth inning. Steele's ERA is now down to 2.87 on the season with a 1.12 WHIP and 100:24 K:BB across 19 starts (109.2 innings). He currently lines up for a home matchup with the Reds in his next outing.

Steele (10-3) earned the win Friday, allowing two runs on six hits and one walk over 6.1 innings in a 4-3 victory over the Cardinals. He struck out nine.

Steele bounced back with a season-high nine strikeouts and submitted his 12th quality start of the year Friday after giving up a season-high six runs to Boston last time out. The left-hander's command has really stood out in 2023, as he's walked one or fewer batters in 14 of his 18 starts and holds a 96:21 K:BB through 103.2 innings. Steele will look to make it back-to-back wins during his next start, which is tentatively scheduled for a rematch against the Cardinals in St. Louis.

Steele (9-3) allowed six runs on 10 hits across six innings to take the loss Sunday against the Red Sox. He had one walk and six strikeouts.

The primary damage came from two Boston home runs, including a Masataka Yoshida grand slam in the fifth inning. Steele has now allowed nine earned runs in his last two starts after allowing just three total runs in his previous four starts. The lefty is now up to 97.1 innings this season following a career-high 119 innings last year. It's possible that fatigue becomes a factor for Steele, so the Cubs may decide to skip his turn in the rotation at some point or otherwise limit his workload. He's currently slated to start again Friday against the Cardinals.

Steele allowed three runs on nine hits and no walks while striking out five batters over six innings in a no-decision against Milwaukee on Wednesday.

Steele was excellent through five innings, giving up just one run on five hits. However, he served up a leadoff homer to Willy Adames in the sixth, then allowed one more run on three additional hits over the remainder of the frame. Steele was able to finish the sixth to notch the quality start, and a late Chicago comeback ensured that he didn't take the loss. This was just the fourth time in 16 starts this season that the southpaw has allowed three or more earned runs, which is a testament to how solid he's been overall. Steele ranks sixth among qualified MLB pitchers with a 2.56 ERA and is tied for ninth with 11 quality starts.

Steele (9-2) earned the win Friday, allowing three hits and one walk over 6.1 scoreless innings against Cleveland. He struck out six.

Steele plunked the first batter he faced and followed that up by committing a throwing error while trying to start a routine double-play, brining Jose Ramirez to the plate with runners on first and second and no outs. However, the left-hander proceeded to retire the next three batters, including strikeouts of Ramirez and Josh Bell, to escape the first and then put on cruise control. The left-hander's scoreless outing lowered his ERA to 2.43, which is the best mark the National League, and he sports a solid 76:19 K:BB across 85.1 innings. Steele has emerged as a workhorse at the top of Chicago's rotation this year, and his next start is lined up for a divisional matchup in Milwaukee.

Steele (8-2) allowed one run on five hits across six innings to earn the win Saturday against the Cardinals. He walked one and struck out eight.

The Cubs jumped out to a 7-0 lead in London and that was more than enough for Steele, who picked up his second straight win since returning from the injured list due to a forearm strain. The lefty is building on last season's breakout campaign, as he now has a stellar 2.62 ERA and 1.06 WHIP across 79 innings this season. Steele will look to keep rolling in his next outing toward the end of next week once the team returns from across the pond.

Steele (7-2) earned the win Saturday, allowing two runs on five hits with one walk over five innings against the Orioles. He struck out four.

Steele held the Orioles scoreless until the fifth inning when Adley Rutschman took him deep to drive home Austin Hays and tie the game at 2-2. He would make it out of the inning without allowing anymore damage, and the left-hander still managed to earn the win thanks to Chicago's offense immediately responding with a go-ahead run in the bottom of the inning. It was a solid performance for Steele in his return from the 15-day injured list (forearm) and he now sits at seven wins on the season behind a very strong 2.71 ERA.

The Cubs reinstated Steele (forearm) from the 15-day injured list Saturday, Taylor McGregor of Marquee Sports Network reports.

Steele landed on the injured list June 3 (retroactive to June 2) and will return to the mound Saturday against Baltimore after a minimum IL stint. Steele has been solid all season; however, he's been rather inconsistent as of late, allowing five earned runs in two of his last four starts while shutting out opponents during the other two.

Steele (forearm) will rejoin the Cubs' rotation Saturday against the Orioles, Jared Wyllys of AllCHGO.com reports.

Steele got through a bullpen session Thursday without any hiccups, officially clearing the way for his activation from the injured list. The left-hander will be returning when first eligible and skipping a rehab assignment, so it's possible he won't quite be ready for a full workload against Baltimore. Steele posted a 2.65 ERA in 12 starts before going down with a left forearm strain.

Steele (forearm) is throwing a bullpen session Tuesday, Jordan Bastian of MLB.com reports.

Steele appears to be tracking toward a return from the 15-day injured list when first eligible this Saturday against the Orioles, assuming the Cubs aren't going to ask him to make a minor-league rehab start. The 27-year-old has progressed without issue so far in his recovery from a mild left forearm strain.

Cubs manager David Ross said Wednesday that Steele (forearm) is on track to return June 17 against the Orioles, Meghan Montemurro of the Chicago Tribune reports.

That is the exact date that Steele will first become eligible to be activated from the 15-day injured list. He was diagnosed late last week with a left forearm strain, but it's considered relatively minor and he is set to throw a "touch-and-feel" side session Wednesday, per Ross. The 27-year-old southpaw had worked to a sharp 2.65 ERA, 1.06 WHIP and 58:16 K:BB through 12 starts (68 innings) prior to the IL stint.

Steele was placed on the 15-day injured list, retroactive to June 2, with a left forearm strain by the Cubs on Saturday, Maddie Lee of the Chicago Sun-Times reports.

Steele was removed from Wednesday's start with a "mild" left forearm strain, and it's not a surprise that the southpaw will miss a couple of weeks while he recovers. Miguel Amaya has been recalled from Triple-A Iowa to take Steele's place on the roster. The Cubs will likely make another roster move when Steele's turn in the rotation comes up.

Steele was diagnosed Friday with a mild left forearm strain, Meghan Montemurro of the Chicago Tribune reports.

It's relatively good news for Steele, who was removed from his last turn in the Cubs' rotation Wednesday against the Rays after experiencing forearm tightness. He's yet to be placed on the injured list, though that move could come following another day or two of assessment and evaluation. The 27-year-old southpaw has been excellent so far in 2023, working to a 2.65 ERA, 1.06 WHIP and 58:16 K:BB through 12 starts covering 68 innings.

Steele's left forearm injury is not considered serious, Jesse Rogers of ESPN.com said in an interview on an interview on the Waddle & Silvy Show on Thursday, Brett Taylor of Bleacher Nation reports.

Steele had been set to undergo an MRI on his forearm Thursday after having to leave Wednesday's start versus the Rays when his arm tightened up on him. While the results of that MRI haven't been revealed, it would appear the Cubs received good news. Steele could still miss at least one start and might go on the injured list as a precaution, but it sounds like he has avoided a serious injury.

Cubs manager David Ross said Steele will undergo an MRI on his left forearm Thursday, Paul Sullivan of the Chicago Tribune reports.

Ross had no other information, but there's an ominous feeling to this situation after Steele was forced from his start Wednesday afternoon against the Rays due to forearm tightness. He had thrown three perfect frames prior to his departure while lowering his season ERA to 2.65. If he requires a stint on the injured list -- which seems likely even if the MRI is clean -- Hayden Wesneski would be a good bet to fill the vacant rotation spot.

Steele was removed from Wednesday's game against the Rays due to left forearm tightness, Jordan Bastian of MLB.com reports.

The Cubs likely won't have a prognosis available for Steele until he undergoes further testing on his forearm, but based on the initial diagnosis, he'll almost certainly head to the 15-day injured list. Before he was visited on the mound by manager David Ross and a team trainer in the third inning, Steele was cruising through his 12th start of the season, as he retired all nine batters he faced on 29 pitches. Hayden Wesneski came on in bulk relief to replace Steele and would likely be the top candidate to enter the rotation in the likely scenario that Steele winds up on the IL.

Steele was removed from his start Wednesday versus the Rays due to an apparent injury, Jordan Bastian of MLB.com reports.

Steele got a visit from Cubs manager David Ross and trainer Nick Frangella in the top of the third inning and then did not return from the dugout to begin the top of the fourth. He had thrown three perfect frames on 29 pitches -- 19 strikes -- so his departure was almost certainly related to an injury or illness. There should be an update soon from Wrigley Field.

Steele (6-2) took the loss Friday, allowing six runs (five earned) on 10 hits over 3.2 innings against the Reds. He struck out four and did not issue a walk.

Steele got roughed up Friday, allowing a season-high 10 hits and at least five earned runs for the second time over his past three starts, but he's still been solid to start the 2023 campaign. He doesn't face any threats to his spot in the rotation and sports above-average numbers with a 2.77 ERA, 1.11 WHIP and 57:16 K:BB over 10 appearances (61.1 innings). For the most part, the left-hander has relied on a two-pitch mix, but he may need to work in a third offering to switch things up after a couple of poor outings.

Steele did not factor into the decision Sunday, allowing four hits and a walk over six scoreless innings against the Phillies. He struck out six.

Steele was sharp Sunday, blanking a powerful Phillies lineup over six innings after allowing a season-high five runs against the Astros in his last outing. The 27-year-old left-hander is 6-1 this season with a sparkling 2.20 ERA and 1.01 WHIP and 53:16 K:BB through 10 starts (61.1 innings). Steele's 7.78 K/9 would be a career low though he's held opponents to a 24.3 percent hard-hit rate, putting him in the 97th percentile in the league.

Steele (6-1) allowed five runs on five hits across six innings to take the loss Tuesday against the Astros. He walked one and struck out eight.

Steele took his first loss of the season but actually pitched pretty well by scattering six baserunners across six innings while tying his season high in strikeouts. Houston is a tough place to pitch, and the lefty still has a solid 2.44 ERA, so he should bounce back quickly. Steele is tentatively set to take the hill again Sunday against the Phillies.

Steele (6-0) allowed three runs on seven hits and three walks while striking out three over six innings to earn the win Wednesday over the Cardinals.

By his lofty standards in 2023, this was somewhat of a disappointing effort. That said, Steele turned in his seventh quality start in eight outings, and he remains undefeated on the season, though he can thank his offense for strong run support in Wednesday's contest. The southpaw has a 1.82 ERA, 1.03 WHIP and 39:14 K:BB through 49.1 innings over eight starts. He's projected for a tough road start in Houston next week.

Steele (5-0) picked up the win in Friday's 4-1 victory over the Marlins, allowing one run on six hits over seven innings. He struck out four without walking a batter.

The southpaw was sharp once again, tossing 64 of 86 pitches for strikes and shutting out Miami through five innings. Steele's ability to limit homers has been his strongest asset so far in 2023 -- he's kept the ball in the yard in six of his seven starts. The 27-year-old will take a 1.45 ERA, 0.95 WHIP and 36:11 K:BB through 43.1 innings into his next outing, likely to come at home next week against the Cardinals.

Steele did not factor into the decision Sunday, allowing three runs (two earned) on seven hits and a walk over six innings in a 4-3 loss against the Marlins. He struck out three.

Steele is off to an excellent start this season, recording quality starts in five out of his six outings, and has yet to allow more than two earned runs in a start. The 27-year-old left-hander is 4-0 with a 1.49 ERA, 0.96 WHIP and 32:11 K:BB. Steele has excelled at limiting hard contact while inducing a 56% ground ball rate. He's tentatively lined up to face the Marlins again at home in his next outing.

Steele (4-0) earned the win Tuesday, allowing zero runs on three hits and two walks over 5.1 innings against San Diego. He struck out five.

Steele was excellent once again against the Padres on Tuesday, and the southpaw threw 59-of-98 pitches for strikes. None of the hits he allowed in the contest went for extra bases, and he's now gone gone five starts in a row to begin 2022 without allowing more than two runs; with three of those outings seeing him give up no more than a single score. Steele will take a sensational 1.19 ERA to the test over the weekend in a scheduled start against the Marlins.

Steele (3-0) allowed two runs (one earned) on four hits across six innings to earn the win Wednesday against the Athletics. He walked two and struck out five.

Steele got plenty of run support as the Cubs scored 12 runs, and that was more than enough for the lefty, who now has a dazzling 1.44 ERA across four starts. Steele has also racked up 24 strikeouts versus only eight walks across 25 innings. If he continues to limit the free passes, the sky seems to be the limit for Steele. He's slated to take the hill again early next week against the Padres at Wrigley Field.

Steele (2-0) earned the win Friday, allowing two runs on three hits and one walk over seven innings in a 8-2 victory over the Dodgers. He struck out eight.

Steele has been lights-out this year, as his 1.42 ERA is good for sixth in the majors thus far. The southpaw will certainly be an All-Star this year if he keeps pitching at that level. Fantasy managers clearly have reasons to be excited. However, it's still early, and there is plenty of time left in the season to start faltering.

Steele (1-0) allowed one run on four hits across six innings to earn the win Saturday against the Rangers. He walked four and struck out three.

Steele has been excellent across two starts so far this season, allowing just the one run through 12 innings while striking out 11. The four walks Saturday are a bit concerning, as the lefty struggled with control a bit last year. He was still able to post a 3.18 ERA with 126 strikeouts over 119 innings in 2022, and a similar campaign could be on tap in 2023 with the potential for a step forward if he cuts down on the walks. Steele will look to keep rolling in his next scheduled start Friday against the Dodgers on the road.

Steele struck out eight batters in six scoreless innings Saturday against the Brewers, walking one and allowing three hits. He did not factor in to the decision.

Steele impressed last season to the tune of a 3.18 ERA in 24 starts, and his first outing of 2023 indicates there's more where that came from. Saturday's outing stands as one of the best of his young career, as only once last season did he throw six shutout innings (incidentally also against the Brewers). It wasn't enough to secure the victory, however, as the Brewers would go on to take a 3-1 lead in the eighth inning. Steele will look to have another strong start next Friday against the Rangers.

Steele is listed as the starting pitcher for Saturday's contest against the Brewers.

It seemed like offseason acquisition Jameson Taillon would be the team's No. 2 pitcher behind Marcus Stroman to begin the year, but it will be Steele pitching the second game with Taillon set to debut Sunday. This allows the Cubs to go righty-lefty-righty with the top of their rotation. Steele had a strong 2022 with a 3.18 ERA and 126 strikeouts across 119 innings, which he'll look to build from in 2023.

Steele allowed one run on four hits across three innings in Monday's Cactus League game against the Padres. He walked five and struck out three.

Steele is somewhat lucky he only allowed one run after letting nine players reach base in his three innings of work. The lefty had a nice 2022 campaign with a 3.18 ERA and 126 strikeouts across 119 innings, though control remains a bit of an issue. Steele posted a 4.3 BB/9 in 2021 and was only marginally better last year with a 3.8 BB/9. If the 27-year-old can improve in that area this season, he could be primed for another step forward.

Steele (arm) tossed two scoreless innings in Friday's Cactus League game against the Angels. He allowed no hits or walks, and did not record a strikeout.

Steele was scratched from an earlier spring start due to arm fatigue, but he looked good in his Cactus League debut. The lefty didn't have any strikeouts, though he recorded 126 of them across 119 innings last season, so he should start to pick up more strikeouts as he gets rolling. Steele will be looking to build on his 2022 breakout as Chicago's No. 3 starter this year behind Marcus Stroman and Jameson Taillon.

Steele (arm) is scheduled to make his Cactus League debut Friday against the Padres, Maddie Lee of the Chicago Sun-Times reports.

Steele got the go-ahead after throwing another successful bullpen session Tuesday in Cubs camp. The 27-year-old left-hander came down with a bit of arm soreness last month, but all is well now as he readies himself for a spot in Chicago's season-opening starting rotation. He posted an impressive 3.18 ERA with 126 strikeouts over 119 innings in 2022.

Steele (arm) is expected to make his Cactus League debut sometime this weekend, Tony Andracki of the Marquee Sports Network reports.

Steele was scratched from a scheduled Cactus League start this past Sunday due to arm soreness, but he made it through a bullpen session without issue Tuesday in Cubs camp. As long as everything goes more smoothly from this point forward, the 27-year-old left-hander should be ready to open the 2023 campaign as a mid-rotation starter on the North Side of Chicago.

Steele (arm) said he's scheduled to throw a bullpen session Tuesday, Jordan Bastian of MLB.com reports.

The Cubs scratched Steele from his planned Cactus League debut this past Saturday against the Giants, citing general arm fatigue. Fortunately for Steele, the issue doesn't appear to be anything more significant, as he'll likely get the green light to make his first spring start later this week if the bullpen session goes according to plan. The southpaw already says that he feels like he can cover 2-to-3 innings, despite missing his first turn through the spring rotation.

Steele was scratched from Sunday's spring start against the Dodgers due to general arm fatigue, Taylor McGregor of Marquee Sports Network reports.

The left-hander hasn't been shut down from throwing and is scheduled for a bullpen session within the next couple days, but it's still a concerning development early in spring training. If Steele's bullpen goes well he could take the mound in Chicago's next turn through the rotation.

Steele could slot in as the Cubs' No. 3 starter to begin the regular season, Patrick Mooney and Sahadev Sharma of The Athletic report.

With Kyle Hendricks (shoulder) expected to begin the year on the injured list, Chicago's rotation is somewhat thinned out. Marcus Stroman should lead the way, followed by the newly signed Jameson Taillon. After that, it's fairly wide open, with Steele, Drew Smyly, Adrian Sampson and Hayden Wesneski likely battling for three spots. Steele posted a solid 3.18 ERA and 126 strikeouts across 119 innings last year, so the lefty figures to have one of the spots secured.

Manager David Ross said Wednesday that Steele (back) isn't expected to be reinstated from the injured list prior to the end of the regular season, Meghan Montemurro of the Chicago Tribune reports.

Steele threw a successful bullpen session Tuesday and is expected to throw another high-intensity session soon. While the left-hander might have been in the mix for a late-season return if the Cubs were in playoff contention, the team will elect not to rush him back for a short appearance prior to the end of the regular season. Steele had a career-best season in 2022, posting a 3.18 ERA and 1.35 WHIP in 119 innings over 24 starts, and he should be able to have a fairly normal offseason program now that he's ramping up his workload.

Steele (back) will throw a bullpen session Saturday, Taylor McGregor of Marquee Sports Network reports.

Steele has been sidelined for nearly a month due to a back issue but has been throwing bullpen sessions for two weeks. Although it's encouraging that he's continued to throw off a mound recently, it's not yet clear whether the southpaw will be able to return to game action over the final week and a half of the regular season.

Steele (back) threw a bullpen session Monday without issue, Taylor McGregor of Marquee Sports Network reports.

Steele has been out of action since feeling soreness in his back in his August 26 start, but he has recovered to the point where he can get back on the mound. It remains to be seen if he will toss another bullpen session or if he is ready to embark on a rehab assignment.

The Cubs placed Steele (back) on the 15-day injured list Monday.

The transaction is retroactive to Friday, making Sept. 17 the earliest date Steele will be eligible to rejoin the Cubs. Steele hadn't pitched since Aug. 26, as he missed his subsequent turn through the rotation while he was on the restricted list due to him being ineligible to cross the Canadian border for the Cubs' series in Toronto. He had been expected to rejoin the rotation for the Cubs' first game of the week Tuesday against the Reds, but he was still experiencing back soreness stemming from the Aug. 26 start. The Cubs will now give the prized lefty some extra time to heal up, while prospect Hayden Wesneski was called up from Triple-A Iowa to presumably fill Steele's spot in Chicago's six-man rotation.

Steele (back) won't make a start during the Cubs' three-game home series with the Reds that begins Tuesday, Steve Greenberg of the Chicago Sun-Times reports.

Steele hasn't pitched since experiencing back soreness coming out of his Aug. 26 start in Milwaukee. He missed out on a start in Toronto last week while he was on the restricted list, and even though he was added back to the active roster Thursday, the Cubs aren't yet comfortable with having him slot back into the rotation. Wade Miley (shoulder) will be activated from the 60-day injured list Tuesday to start the series opener with Cincinnati, giving Steele a few more days to ramp up and move past the injury. If all goes well, Steele could be an option to make a start during the Cubs' series with the Giants over the upcoming weekend.

The Cubs reinstated Steele (back) from the restricted list Thursday.

Steele was moved to the restricted list Monday in advance of the Cubs' series in Toronto, as he was ineligible to enter Canada due to his vaccination status. When the lefty's turn in the rotation came up during the Toronto series, the Cubs replaced Steele with Luke Farrell, who covered two innings as a starter in Wednesday's 7-5 loss. Though he'll be added back to the 28-man active roster now that the series in Toronto has concluded, Steele won't make a start this weekend in St. Louis, as the Cubs likely want to give him additional time to recover from the lower-back tightness he experienced in his last outing Aug. 26 in Milwaukee. If Steele is able to throw a bullpen session over the weekend without any discomfort, he's expected to be plugged back into the rotation for next Tuesday's game against the Reds.

Steele (back/personal) is expected to start Tuesday against the Reds, Meghan Montemurro of the Chicago Tribune reports.

Steele exited his start against the Brewers on Friday due to low-back tightness and is on the restricted list for the Cubs' series in Toronto that concludes Wednesday. The southpaw will get some extra time to rest upon his return from the restricted list, but he'll likely return to the mound for Tuesday's series opener against the Reds at Wrigley Field.

Steele (back) was placed on the restricted list Monday, Maddie Lee of the Chicago Sun-Times reports.

Steele experienced low-back tightness during Friday's start against the Brewers, and he'll be unavailable for the Cubs' three-game series in Toronto this week since he's unvaccinated. If his back injury doesn't prevent him from pitching, the southpaw will likely return to action sometime this weekend in St. Louis.

Cubs manager David Ross said Sunday that Steele, who experienced low-back tightness coming out of his most recent start Friday against the Brewers, won't be eligible to join the team in Toronto for its upcoming three-game series versus the Blue Jays due to his vaccination status, Gordon Wittenmyer of NBC Sports Chicago reports.

Along with Steele, fellow starting pitcher Adrian Sampson won't make the trip to Toronto due to the vaccination rules in place for Canada. Sampson is starting Sunday's series finale in Milwaukee and wasn't in line to pitch versus the Blue Jays anyway, but Steele would have been on tap to take the hill Wednesday, assuming his back issue didn't prove to be a concern. Instead, the Cubs will now have to place Sampson on the restricted list Monday and appoint a spot starter for Wednesday's contest. Steele should be on track to make his next start at some point during the Cubs' series in St. Louis next weekend.

Steele gave up one earned run on four hits and four walks while striking out six over 5.1 innings in a 4-3 extra-inning win over the Brewers on Friday. He did not factor into the decision.

Steele managed to avoid the big inning by repeatedly pitching himself out of trouble despite issuing four free passes. The only damage came on a solo home run off the bat of Tyrone Taylor in the fifth. Steele has now walked 50 batters in 119 innings this season but has been remarkably effective as of late. He has an ERA of 0.96 over five starts in August. He came out of the game after 88 pitches with lower back tightness, so it is presently unclear if he will be fit to make his next start.

Steele was removed from Friday's game against the Brewers due to low back tightness, Tony Andracki of Marquee Sports Network reports.

Although Steele appeared to be reaching for his left leg prior to leaving Friday's matchup with a trainer, he was ultimately diagnosed with a back injury following his departure. It's not yet clear whether the issue will force him to spend time on the injured list. If the southpaw is cleared to make his next turn through the rotation, he projects to start on the road Wednesday in Toronto.

Steele was removed from Friday's game against the Brewers in the bottom of the sixth inning due to an apparent leg injury, Meghan Montemurro of the Chicago Tribune reports.

Steele was relatively effective to begin Friday's matchup, allowing a run on four hits and four walks while striking out six in 5.1 innings. However, he appeared to grab at the back of his left leg after giving up a flyout in the bottom of the sixth inning, and he exited the game following a visit from the trainer. The exact nature and severity of his injury aren't yet clear, but Steele tentatively lines up to make his next start on the road against Toronto on Wednesday if he's cleared to pitch.

Steele allowed no runs on two hits and one walk over six innings against the Brewers, striking out nine. He did not factor into the decision.

The Cubs' southpaw was sharp all afternoon, as he held the Brewers to three baserunners on the day. Steele lowered his ERA to 3.25 on the season and now has three straight quality starts. Additionally, he has recorded 39 strikeouts in 26.1 innings in his last five starts after recording less than a strikeout per inning up to that point. He tentatively lines up for a rematch against the Brewers next week.

Steele did not factor into the decision Tuesday, allowing one run on five hits and two walks over six innings against Washington. He struck out five.

In his second time facing the Nationals in as many starts, Steele recorded a quality start but failed to record the win. This time he was even better, holding the Nationals to just one unearned run which came across to score in the sixth inning. The mini streak of quality starts is a welcome sign for Steele as he had failed to do so in his previous three starts. He will take a 3.43 ERA into his next start, which is tentatively scheduled for Sunday against Milwaukee.

Steele didn't factor into the decision in Wednesday's 4-2 win over the Nationals, giving up two runs on eight hits over six innings. He struck out nine without walking a batter.

The southpaw pitched well but was stuck with a 2-0 deficit as he left the game after 94 pitches (65 strikes). Fortunately for Steele and the Cubs, his offense erupted for all four of its runs in the seventh to take him off the hook for his eighth loss. He still delivered his sixth quality start of the season and first since the All-Star break, and Steele will take a 3.63 ERA and 106:43 K:BB through 101.2 innings into his next outing.

Steele struck out 10 batters in 4.2 scoreless innings Friday against the Marlins, walking one while allowing four hits. He did not factor into the decision.

Steele isn't known for his strikeout stuff, as he carried a forgettable 22.5 percent career strikeout rate heading into Friday's start, but he wound up matching his career high with his second double-digit strikeout game of the season. The Marlins didn't offer much resistance outside of the fourth inning, when a catcher's interference and a pair of singles loaded the bases with one out, but Steele would escape that jam with a strikeout and a flyout. The only negative for the lefty was that all the long counts needed to finish off all those strikeouts meant he was unable to finish five frames, but it was still quite a encouraging performance. Steele will look to provide an encore Wednesday against Washington.

Steele will make his next start Friday against the Marlins, Jordan Bastian of MLB.com reports.

Steele appeared set to pitch in Thursday's doubleheader after his start Wednesday was postponed due to inclement weather, but Chicago will instead push him back an additional day. Marcus Stroman will start Game 1 of the twin bill, and the Cubs have yet to announce who will take the mound for the nightcap.

Steele won't start as scheduled Wednesday against the Cardinals since the game was postponed due to inclement weather, Meghan Montemurro of the Chicago Tribune reports.

The contest will be made up via a doubleheader Thursday, and Steele should start one of those games. He's given up five runs (one earned) with an 8:5 K:BB across 8.2 frames in his two starts since the All-Star break.

Steele (4-7) allowed four unearned runs on five hits, a walk and a hit batsman while striking out six in 3.2 innings, taking the loss Thursday versus the Giants.

Errors early in the third and fourth innings ultimately allowed the Giants to tag Steele for a pair of runs in each of those frames. The Cubs' offense couldn't overcome the defensive shortcomings, sending the southpaw to defeat in his shortest outing since a two-inning effort May 26. Steele's ERA dropped to 3.86, but he has an unimpressive 1.43 WHIP and 87:42 K:BB through 91 innings in 19 starts this year. He's projected to make his next start in St. Louis next week.

Steele (4-6) yielded one run on four hits and four walks over five innings Sunday, striking out two and earning a win over the Phillies.

Steele served up a solo homer to Kyle Schwarber on his first pitch of the night. He put seven more Phillies on base but held them off the board for the rest of his outing. Since the start of June, Steele is 3-1 with a 2.85 ERA through eight outings; he's allowed two or fewer runs in six of those. The 27-year-old southpaw will carry a 4.02 ERA into his expected start in San Francisco next week.

Steele (3-6) took the loss Wednesday, allowing three earned runs on six hits and one walk over six innings against the Orioles. He struck out three.

Steele was reinstate from the paternity list ahead of Wednesday's start and returned with a solid six-inning effort after struggling in the first. The left-hander allowed four of the first five Orioles to reach base, with three of them coming around to score before Steele got out of the jam by retiring Adley Rutschman and Ramon Urias. Steele has pitched at least five inning in eight straight starts and sports a 3.23 ERA with 39 strikeouts during that stretch. His next start isn't scheduled until after the All-Star break.

The Cubs reinstated Steele from the paternity list Tuesday, Jordan Bastian of MLB.com reports. The left-hander said he'll start Wednesday's series finale with the Orioles at Wrigley Field, according to Gordon Wittenmyer of NBC Sports Chicago.

Reliever Anderson Espinoza was optioned to Triple-A Iowa to clear a spot on the 26-man active roster for Steele, who was away from the Cubs for the maximum three days to observe the birth of his child. The timing of his paternity leave caused him to miss out on a two-start week, but he'll get more outing under his belt before the All-Star break.

Steele (personal) was placed on the paternity list Saturday, Meghan Montemurro of the Chicago Tribune reports.

Steele did not travel with the Cubs to Los Angeles for the team's weekend series against the Dodgers. He was officially placed on the paternity list to make room for Marcus Stroman (shoulder) -- Saturday's starter -- on the active roster. Steele will have to return by Tuesday's game against the Orioles, though it's unclear when he may make his next start.

Steele did not travel with the team to Los Angeles while he awaits the birth of his child, Meghan Montemurro of the Chicago Tribune reports.

Steele has not officially been placed on the paternity list yet, but he will not make his scheduled start Saturday against the Dodgers. The team has not announced a starter, though Drew Smyly (oblique) is among the top candidates.

Steele allowed just one run on two hits across 6.2 innings but did not factor into the decision in Monday's loss to the Brewers. He walked four and struck out nine.

Steele was cruising with a 1-0 lead into the seventh inning, but after recording two quick outs, he allowed a walk and double that tied the game. After another walk, the lefty got the hook. It was still a promising start for Steele, who was one away from matching his season high in strikeouts. The walks are still holding him back a bit, as this was the seventh time in 16 starts that he's walked three or more batters. Steele will look to keep pitching well in his next scheduled start Saturday against the Dodgers.

Steele (3-5) earned the win over Cincinnati on Wednesday, pitching five-plus innings and allowing one run on six hits and three walks while striking out six.

Steele had some control issues in the contest, as he issued three walks and threw only 48 of 84 pitches for strikes. However, the southpaw was able to navigate his way to the win by inducing two double plays and surrendering only one extra-base hit. Steele held the Reds scoreless through five innings but was pulled after allowing three straight hitters to reach base in the sixth; that resulted in only one run, though, as Scott Effross didn't allow either of his two inherited runners to score after relieving Steele. Walks have been a major concern for Steele on the campaign -- he's issued multiple free passes in 11 of his 15 starts -- but he's managed to hang onto a spot in the Cubs' rotation by yielding three or fewer earned runs in 12 of the 15 appearances.

Steele allowed six runs (five earned) on seven hits across 5.2 innings and did not factor into the decision in Thursday's loss to the Pirates. He didn't walk anyone and struck out eight.

Steele was impressive missing bats, but a solo home run by Bryan Reynolds and a two-run shot by Ke'Bryan Hayes spoiled the lefty's outing. He's had some ups and downs this year, and he's now sitting with a 4.59 ERA, 1.45 WHIP and 61 strikeouts across 64.2 innings. Steele will look for better results in his next scheduled start Wednesday against the Reds.

Steele (2-5) gave up two earned runs on five hits and three walks while striking out three in five innings en route to the win Saturday against Atlanta.

He did the bare minimum from an innings standpoint and wasn't overly dominant, generating just six whiffs all game, but Steele registered his second win of the season. As things stand, he lines up to bring his four-seamer/slider combination to the mound again Thursday in Pittsburgh.

Steele allowed one run on six hits over seven innings in Monday's loss to the Padres. He struck out three and did not factor in the decision.

Steele gave another strong performance but he's still looking for his first win since April 9. The only run he allowed came in the third inning from Jake Cronenworth's RBI single. Over his last two outings, Steele has been charged with two earned runs over 14 frames, lowering his season ERA to 4.33 across 12 starts. The 26-year-old is projected to face Atlanta at home this weekend.

Steele didn't factor into the decision during Sunday's 5-3 loss to St. Louis, allowing two runs (one earned) on seven hits and three walks with one strikeout in seven innings.

Steele was efficient Sunday, navigating a season-high seven innings on 94 pitches, but encountered trouble in the fifth when both runs scored on three hits and an error. The additional innings came at a cost though as the 26-year-old whiffed only one batter after striking out 27 batters in 18 innings across his previous four starts. Steele now holds a 4.79 ERA and 1.55 WHIP while striking out 47 batters in 47 innings across 11 turns. He lines up to face the Yankees next weekend.

Steele allowed three runs on three hits and four walks over five innings in an 8-7 win Tuesday over Milwaukee. He struck out six and did not factor into the decision.

Steele gave up three runs in the third inning on three hits and a walk. Through four innings, the lefty had thrown 89 pitches and walked a batter in each frame. Somewhat surprisingly, he came back out for the fifth inning and retired the side in order, finishing with a career-high 102 pitches tossed. The 26-year-old has completed five innings in only four of his 10 starts and has an alarming 23 walks in 40 innings.

Steele (1-5) took the loss Thursday, allowing seven runs on seven hits and two walks over two innings against the Reds. He struck out two.

Steele gave up a two-run homer to Kyle Farmer in the bottom of the second inning and allowed the first five hitters to reach in the third, which all ended up coming around to score, before being taken out of the game for Scott Effross. After back-to-back stellar outings against the Diamondback, Steele posted his worst outing of the season, causing his ERA to jump from 3.82 to 5.40.

Steele pitched scoreless five innings, surrendering one hit and two walks while striking out nine in the loss to the Diamondbacks on Saturday. He did not factor into the decision.

Steele was tasked with facing Diamondbacks for a second straight start Saturday, once again dominating the opponent. He limited them to just three baserunners while allowing a season-low one hit. After having 19 total punchouts over his first six starts, the left-hander registered 19 combined in the two starts versus the Diamondbacks. Additionally, he only surrendered one run over those two outings, lowering his season-long numbers to a 3.82 ERA and 1.42 WHIP with 38 strikeouts over 33 innings.

Steele didn't factor into the decision during Sunday's 3-2 win over Arizona, allowing two runs (one earned) on three hits and two walks with 10 strikeouts in six innings.

Steele submitted his best game by far, only encountering trouble when a two-out hit and error plated both runs in the fourth inning. The outing was the 26-year-old's first going more than five innings and the 10 whiffs equal his total from the last four games combined. Steele is slated for a rematch with Arizona next weekend.

Steele (thumb) will start Sunday's game against the Diamondbacks, Jordan Bastian of MLB.com reports.

Steele was removed from his last start due to a left thumb issue, but he tested things out off the mound Friday and will be cleared to make his next turn through the rotation. Over his last five starts, the southpaw has posted a 6.88 ERA and 2.00 WHIP in 17 innings.

Steele (thumb) felt good after throwing a bullpen session Friday, Jordan Bastian of MLB.com reports.

Steele exited his start last Sunday against the Dodgers with a sore left thumb. He felt the discomfort specifically while throwing his slider, but he was able to throw that pitch without issues Friday. The Cubs have yet to announce their starter for Sunday's series finale in Arizona, a job which could go to Steele if he's cleared to pitch.

Steele exited Sunday's game against the Dodgers due to left thumb soreness, Andy Martinez of Marquee Sports Network reports.

Steele threw 69 pitches during Sunday's start and allowed two runs on three hits and two walks while striking out three in four innings. However, he was examined by trainers while warming up prior to the fifth inning and was removed from the game. It's not yet clear whether the thumb injury will force him to miss additional time.

Steele was removed from Sunday's game against the Dodgers prior to the top of the fifth inning due to an apparent left hand issue, Tim Stebbins of NBC Sports Chicago reports.

Steele held the Dodgers scoreless for three innings to begin Sunday's matchup, but he gave up two runs in the top of the fourth. In total, he allowed two runs on three hits and two walks while striking out three in four innings. The southpaw was examined by trainers while warming up prior to the fifth inning and was ultimately removed. He tentatively lines up to make his next start on the road against Arizona on Saturday, but it's not yet clear whether he'll be forced to miss time.

Steele will start Sunday's game against the Dodgers, Andy Martinez of Marquee Sports Network reports.

The 26-year-old was originally scheduled to start Saturday before having his outing pushed to Monday, but he'll now take the mound Sunday after Marcus Stroman (undisclosed) was a late addition to the injured list. Steele has struggled through his first five starts of 2022 with a 5.50 ERA, 1.89 WHIP and 16:1 K:BB over 18 innings.

Steele will start Monday's series opener in San Diego, Jordan Bastian of MLB.com reports.

Steele was initially projected to start Saturday against the Dodgers, but the Cubs altered their pitching plans after Friday's matchup was postponed. The southpaw will get a few extra days of rest before taking the mound on the road against the Padres. Over his first five starts in 2022, Steele has posted a 5.50 ERA and 1.89 WHIP in 18 innings.

Steele won't start during Saturday's doubleheader against the Dodgers and isn't listed as the probable pitcher for Sunday's series finale, Meghan Montemurro of the Chicago Tribune reports.

The 26-year-old was originally penciled in to start Saturday, but the Cubs have altered their pitching plans after the postponement of Friday's game, which is being made up via a twin bill Saturday. Drew Smyly and Daniel Norris will start in the doubleheader, while Marcus Stroman is scheduled to take the mound Sunday. Assuming Steele doesn't work out of the bullpen this weekend, he should pitch during the upcoming three-game series in San Diego, which begins Monday.

Steele (1-3) took the loss at the hands of the Brewers on Saturday, allowing four runs (two earned) on seven hits and one walk with four strikeouts in three innings.

Milwaukee jumped out to an early 3-0 lead in the first inning, as Steele surrender four singles and Chicago committed two errors ,and never settled down. He was pulled before he could get through the order a third time while throwing 48 of 74 pitches for strikes and has now made it to five innings just once in five starts. The 26-year-old lefty is tentatively projected to start again on Saturday against the Dodgers.

Steele (1-2) allowed three runs on four hits across three innings to take the loss Sunday against the Pirates. He walked four and struck out two.

Steele struggled with his command, as he walked a season-high four batters and needed 79 pitches to complete his three innings of work. The lefty now has a 6.0 BB/9 across three starts this season, and he won't find much success unless he's able to cut that number down and limit the free passes. Steele will carry a 5.40 ERA into his next scheduled start against the Brewers on Saturday.

Steele (1-1) got the loss after he pitched 2.2 innings, giving up four runs on three hits while walking three and striking out one in Tuesday's loss to the Rays.

Steele gave up an RBI groundout to Manuel Margot in the second frame before running into trouble in the third inning, surrendering a two-run homer to Wander Franco and an RBI double to Brandon Lowe before getting yanked with two outs. The 26-year-old has struggled to pitch deep into games this season, tossing a total of 11 innings and giving up six runs over three starts on his way to a 1-1 record and 4.50 ERA. Steele will look to last longer in his next projected start Sunday at home against the Pirates.

Steele allowed two runs on five hits and two walks while striking out four across 4.1 innings against Colorado on Thursday. He did not factor in the decision.

Steele allowed plenty of traffic on the bases in the outing, but all five hits against him were singles, and he wiggled out of a few jams to surrender just two runs. He wasn't able to go deep enough to pick up the win, however, as he needed 80 pitches to get through 4.1 frames and allowed two of the final three batters he faced to reach base. The southpaw has been a pleasant surprise early in the season, allowing just two runs and posting a 9:3 K:BB across 9.1 innings across two starts. His next trip to the mound is expected to come at home against Tampa Bay next week.

Steele (1-0) pitched five scoreless innings, giving up four hits and one walk while striking out five in a 9-0 win Saturday over Milwaukee.

Steele scattered four singles and induced two double-play ground balls as he shut down the Brewers' offense. He needed 77 pitches to complete five innings and left with the Cubs leading 7-0. Last season, the lefty started his last nine appearances with mixed results. He struggled to prevent walks and home runs but limited hits and struck out more than a batter an inning as a rookie. His next start should be next weekend in Colorado.

Steele's scheduled start Friday against the Brewers has been postponed due to poor weather, Meghan Montemurro of the Chicago Tribune reports.

The game will be made up as part of a doubleheader in May. The Cubs will simply push their rotation back by a day, so Steele will face the Brewers on Saturday instead. That lines him up for a trip to Coors Field next Thursday or Friday.

The Cubs have been building Steele up as a starter this spring and will likely use him in their rotation to begin the season, Jordan Bastian of MLB,com reports.

With Adbert Alzolay (lat) currently on the 60-day injured list and Wade Miley (elbow) getting shut down for 10 days, the Cubs have a few holes in their rotation behind Kyle Hendricks and Marcus Stroman. Alec Mills should fill one of those spots, and Drew Smyly looks like he'll be starting too. Steele should then slot in at the back of the rotation, but the eventual return of Alzolay and Miley will likely push him into a relief role.

Steele allowed two runs on three hits across 2.2 innings in Tuesday's Cactus League game against the Diamondbacks. He walked four and struck out one.

It was an uneven performance for Steele, who is vying for a spot in the back part of the Cubs' rotation to begin the season, particularly if Wade Miley (neck) isn't quite ready to go. Steele has a solid 2.70 ERA this spring, but his seven walks in 6.2 innings of work are obviously a bit concerning. The lefty will need to exhibit better control if he wants to have any sustained success this year.

Steele pitched two scoreless innings in Thursday's Cactus League game against the Angels. He walked two and struck out two.

Steele is competing for a spot at the back of the Cubs' rotation, so performances like this are very useful. Keegan Thompson is also in the mix for the No. 5 role, as is the newly signed Drew Smyly. Steele appeared in 20 games for Chicago last season, starting nine of them, and registered a 4.26 ERA across 57 innings of work.

Steele will likely have added competition for the last spot in the Cubs' rotation after the team signed Steven Brault (lat) on Wednesday, per Jordan Bastian of MLB.com.

Brault is still recovering from a lat strain suffered last season, but the lefty gives Chicago a veteran option, as he's made 52 career starts across six seasons at the MLB level. Steele, meanwhile, has nine career starts, which all came last year. The latter pitched decently, recording a 4.26 ERA and 59 strikeouts across 57 innings of work in 2021, so he could definitely grab hold of the No. 5 role with an impressive spring training.

Manager David Ross said Tuesday that Steele and Keegan Thompson will be the primary competitors for the fifth and final spot in the Cubs' Opening Day rotation, Gordon Wittenmyer of NBC Sports Chicago reports.

Ross left the door open for the Cubs to add another starting pitcher or two via trade or free agency before the start of the season, but for now, the club is looking internally to fill the void in the rotation created by the injury to Adbert Alzolay (lat), who is expected to miss at least two months. Both Steele and Thompson saw most of their initial appearances with the big club last season as relievers, but the two got the chance to pick up regular starts in the second half while the non-contending Cubs shifted into evaluation mode. Over his nine starts in 2021, Steele posted a 4.95 ERA, 1.44 WHIP and a 38:20 while coughing up 10 home runs over 43.2 innings.

Steele (4-4) allowed four hits and one walk while striking out seven across seven innings to earn the win Thursday against the Pirates.

Steele entered the game with a 5.89 ERA across eight starts with the big-league club. However, he turned in his longest outing and first quality start of the campaign while holding the Pirates without any extra-base hits. While his first stint in the major-league rotation wasn't all that successful, Steele could factor the Cubs' future plans as either a starter or reliever. Steele will end the campaign with a 4.26 ERA and 59:27 K:BB across 57 innings.

Steele (3-4) allowed six runs on seven hits and two walks with five strikeouts in five innings, taking the loss in the first game of Friday's doubleheader versus the Cardinals.

The left-hander put too many runners on base, as all three home runs he allowed plated a pair of runs. Steele has now given up 12 long balls in 50 innings this season. The poor start inflated his ERA to 4.86 with a 1.44 WHIP and 52:26 K:BB in 19 appearances (eight starts). He's projected to make one more start this season, a rematch with the Cardinals in St. Louis during next weekend's three-game series.

Steele allowed two runs on on two hits across four innings and did not factor into the decision Saturday against the Brewers. He walked four and struck out four.

Steele was good at limiting hits and missing bats, but the four walks are concerning, and he also allowed two home runs. The lefty continued his trend of making short outings, as he hasn't gone past five innings in any of his seven starts, and this was the second time he logged exactly four innings. Steele has shown some promise, though the inability to go deeper into games caps his fantasy value. He's projected to start again Friday against the Cardinals.

Steele (3-3) allowed five runs on 11 hits across five innings to take the loss Sunday against the Giants. He walked two and struck out four.

Steele simply allowed too many baserunners to be effective, and a two-run home run by Wilmer Flores in the fifth inning punctuated the rough outing. The lefty was reasonably solid in his previous two starts, allowing just three runs across 10 innings, so expect the rebuilding Cubs to keep him in the rotation through the end of the season and possibly into next year if he finishes strongly. Steele lines up to face the Brewers on Saturday in his next scheduled appearance.

Steele surrendered three runs on four hits and two walks while striking out four over five innings in Monday's victory over the Reds. He did not factor into the game's decision.

The lefty went the first five innings of his outing without giving up a run but ran into trouble in the top of the sixth. He allowed four straight batters to reach before being pulled in the inning and then was charge for two more runs after he left. The 26-year-old has posted a 4.77 ERA in five starts since becoming a part of the starting rotation and will draw the Giants in next projected start on Sunday.

Steele (3-2) completed five scoreless innings against Minnesota on Wednesday, allowing one hit and three walks while striking out three to earn the win.

The left-hander was somewhat wild in the outing, throwing only 48 of 86 pitches for strikes and walking three batters. However, he held the Twins to a harmless single and allowed only one runner to reach third base. The performance was easily Steele's finest since moving into the rotation Aug. 10; over his first three starts, he posted a 6.39 ERA, 1.66 WHIP and an 0-2 record. His next turn is likely to come at home against Cincinnati early next week.

Steele allowed four runs on five hits across 3.2 innings and did not factor into the decision in the second game of Wednesday's doubleheader against the Rockies. He walked two and struck out five.

Steele had his start postponed Tuesday night due to inclement weather, and the extra day didn't do the lefty any favors, as he had his worst outing since joining the Cubs' rotation earlier this month. With Adbert Alzolay (hamstring) still on the injured list and Jake Arrieta no longer with the team, Steele should continue to start, and his 4.15 ERA overall is respectable despite Wednesday's hiccup. He's currently lined up to take the mound again Tuesday against the Twins.

Steele won't start as scheduled Tuesday against the Rockies since the game was postponed due to inclement weather, Meghan Montemurro of the Chicago Tribune reports.

The contest will be made up via a doubleheader Wednesday, and Steele will take the mound in the nightcap. Zach Davies will start Game 1 for the Cubs.

Steele (2-2) allowed two runs on five hits across four innings to take the loss Monday against the Reds. He walked three and struck out five.

Steele did a decent job of limiting Cincinnati's offensive output, but the lefty was far from dominant as he allowed an average of two baserunners per inning. The Cubs decided to pull him after 82 pitches and his four innings of work, and then the bullpen allowed 12 more runs in the next four innings. Steele has now made two starts for Chicago, allowing five runs across nine innings while striking out six. Those numbers don't jump off the page, but with Jake Arrieta gone and Adbert Alzolay (hamstring) on the injured list, Steele doesn't have a ton of competition for a rotation spot at the moment. He's projected to start again Sunday against the Royals and will attempt to work a little bit deeper into the contest.

Steele will make his second turn through the Chicago rotation Monday in Cincinnati.

After spending most of the past month at Triple-A Iowa getting stretched out for starting duty, Steele was summoned to the Cubs to make his first MLB start in a doubleheader versus Milwaukee on Aug. 10. He limited the Brewers to three runs on five hits and a walk over five frames, but he struck out only one batter and surrendered two home runs. Steele was already expected to stick around with the Cubs as part of a six-man rotation, but his starting role became even more secure after Chicago released Jake Arrieta and after Adbert Alzolay (hamstring) was moved to the IL. Look for the Cubs to give Steele a evaluation as a starter over the final six weeks of the season as the rebuilding club looks to see if he's a long-term piece in the rotation.

Steele (2-1) took the loss in the first game of Tuesday's doubleheader against the Brewers, giving up three runs on five hits and a walk over five innings as the Cubs fell 4-2. He struck out one.

The 26-year-old southpaw held Milwaukee in check for three innings in his first start in the majors, but a pair of homers in the fourth by Willy Adames and Avisail Garcia wound up begin the difference in the afternoon affair. Steele has only been tagged for six runs in his first 18.1 big-league innings across 12 appearances, leading to a 2.95 ERA, but they've all come on long balls. If he stays with the Cubs he'll likely return to the bullpen after this outing, but having thrown 70 pitches (43 strikes), he should be unavailable for a few days and could be demoted back to Triple-A Iowa to make way for a fresh arm.

Steele was called up as expected ahead of his start in the first game of Tuesday's doubleheader against the Brewers, Jordan Bastian of MLB.com reports.

Steele has made 11 big-league appearances already this season, though they all came in relief. He owns a 2.03 ERA in 13.1 innings of work, backed by an excellent 37.5 percent strikeout rate and 73.1 percent groundball rate. The lefty should have a shot to pitch fairly deep into the game if things are going well for him, as he's been stretching out in the minors and has reached five innings in both of his last two starts.

Steele is set to be recalled from Triple-A Iowa and start the first game of Tuesday's doubleheader against the Brewers with Alec Mills getting the nightcap after Monday's contest was rained out, Gordon Wittenmyer of NBC Sports Chicago reports.

It was previously reported that Steele would get the call from Triple-A Iowa to make his first MLB start Tuesday, but he'll now be doing so in a seven-inning game versus a nine-inning contest. The 26-year-old worked exclusively in relief while with the Cubs earlier in the season though he's been starting recently in Iowa, so he should be at least somewhat stretched out. Steele last started on Wednesday, when he allowed one earned run across five innings with eight strikeouts. It's unclear if he'll receive any more MLB starts beyond Tuesday, but he has a chance to stay in the rotation if he impresses. At the very least, Steele should be able to stick in the Cubs' bullpen as a long reliever given his 2.03 ERA, 1,05 WHIP and 21 strikeouts across 13.1 innings for Chicago this season.

Cubs manager David Ross said Steele would be called up from Triple-A Iowa to start Tuesday's game against the Brewers at Wrigley Field, Russell Dorsey of the Chicago Sun-Times reports.

Steele excelled across 11 relief appearances with the Cubs earlier this season (2.03 ERA, 1.05 WHIP, 21:7 K:BB in 13.1 innings), but the organization still wants to develop the 26-year-old lefty as a starter in the long term. Since being reinstated from the injured list and optioned to Triple-A in early July, Steele has impressed in his five starts for Iowa, compiling an 0.87 ERA, 0.97 WHIP and 11.8 K/9 across 20.2 innings. The Cubs haven't indicated whether Steele will receive any additional starts beyond Tuesday, so he may need to turn in a quality outing against the Brewers to ensure he sticks in the rotation.

Steele (hamstring) was activated from the 10-day injured list Thursday and optioned to Triple-A Iowa, Jordan Bastian of MLB.com reports.

The left-hander has been on a rehab assignment with Iowa over the past couple weeks, and he'll remain with the minor-league club now that he's healthy. It's likely a temporary stay in the minors for Steele, who has a 2.03 ERA, 1.05 WHIP and 21:7 K:BB across 13.1 innings for the Cubs this year.

Steele (hamstring) will begin a rehab assignment with Triple-A Iowa, Russell Dorsey of the Chicago Sun-Times reports.

Steele has been sidelined since May 21 with the injury and is set for his first game action since. It's unclear how long he'll need to ramp back up, but he should be activated by late June or early July.

Steele (hamstring) threw a 35-pitch bullpen Sunday and will be re-evaluated Monday, Bruce Levine of 670TheScore.com reports.

Steele landed on the 10-day injured list May 21. The reliever appears to be nearing a return to the Cubs' bullpen, though it's not clear if the club intends on sending him on a rehab assignment before activating him.

Steele was placed on the 10-day injured list with a right hamstring strain, Patrick Mooney of The Athletic reports.

Steele was lifted from his outing Thursday against the Nationals with what was originally called hamstring tightness, but it appears that the issue is worse than originally reported. He'll sit for at least 10 days, with the Cubs sure to miss his 2.03 ERA and 1.05 WHIP. Brad Wieck was recalled in a corresponding move.

The Cubs announced that Steele was removed from Thursday's game against the Nationals due to right hamstring tightness, Sahadev Sharma of The Athletic reports.

After recording the final out of the fifth inning and then working a clean top of the sixth, Steele looked poised to come out for another inning, as he took an at-bat when his turn came up in the bottom of the sixth. He reached base on a fielder's choice, then appeared to tweak his lower leg at some point while running later in the inning. When Steele's hamstring caused him problems while warming up in the top of the seventh, the Cubs elected to pull him from the contest. Steele has emerged as a key multi-inning weapon out of the bullpen this season, so he would be a costly loss if the injury forces him to miss time.

Steele left Thursday's game against the Nationals with an apparent injury, Sahadev Sharma of The Athletic reports.

Steele allowed no hits and a walk while striking out three in 1.1 scoreless innings during Thursday's relief appearance, but he exited with a trainer while he was warming up for the seventh inning. The nature and severity of Steele's injury aren't yet clear.

Steele (1-0) earned the win during Game 2 of Tuesday's doubleheader against the Dodgers after pitching a scoreless ninth inning, walking one and fanning two.

Steele was coming off a woeful outing where he allowed three runs (and two homers) in just one inning at Cincinnati on May 2, but he bounced back quickly and recorded his first win of the season while shutting down the Dodgers in style. He tosses 11 of his 18 pitches for strikes and while this was an encouraging performance, Steele is expected to remain in a low-leverage role with the Cubs at least on a short-term basis.

The Cubs recalled Steele from their alternate training site Thursday, Meghan Montemurro of the Chicago Tribune reports.

He'll join the bullpen as a replacement for Brandon Workman, who was designated for assignment in a corresponding move. The 25-year-old lefty will likely work primarily in lower-leverage spots while he's up with the Cubs.

Steele was optioned to the Cubs' alternate training site Saturday, Tony Andracki of Marquee Sports Network reports.

Steele joined the major-league bullpen Monday after three pitchers were placed on the COVID-19 injured list. The southpaw allowed two hits and one walk while striking out four in 3.1 innings across three relief appearances in the big leagues. He'll return to the team's alternate site after Brandon Workman and Dan Winkler were reinstated from the COVID-19 IL on Saturday, but Steele could be a candidate to serve as bullpen depth later in the season.

Steele was recalled by the Cubs on Monday.

Steele is one of three relievers who joined the bullpen Monday, with three other pitchers heading to the COVID-19 injured list. The 25-year-old lefty has yet to throw an inning above Double-A, so he'll likely be limited to lower-leverage innings during his time with the team.

Steele was optioned to Triple-A by the Cubs on Friday, Gordon Wittenmyer of NBC Sports Chicago reports.

The 25-year-old was in the mix for a rotation spot but was never a likely bet to make the Opening Day roster since he's never pitched above Double-A. Steele spent last season at the alternate training site and had a 5.59 ERA, 1.70 WHIP and 42:20 K:BB over 38.2 innings at Double-A in 2019.

Steele is among a handful of players vying for an open rotation spot with the Cubs this spring, Jordan Bastian of MLB.com reports.

The Cubs have plenty of innings to fill after parting ways with Yu Darvish, Jon Lester, Jose Quintana and Tyler Chatwood this offseason, and Steele is ostensibly an option to start. However, the 25-year-old has never appeared above the Double-A level, and he only got to participate at the Cubs' alternate training site last season. Steele will likely begin the 2021 season in the minors, though he could get a shot in the majors at some point if he performs well.

The Cubs optioned Steele to their alternate training site in South Bend on Thursday, Jesse Rogers of ESPN.com reports.

Steele was one of two Cubs relievers sent down to the alternate site while the team reduced its active roster from 30 to 28 men, with Rex Brothers set to join him in South Bend. The Cubs didn't use Steele out of the bullpen after he was called up Sunday.

Steele will be recalled from the alternate training site before Sunday's game against the Pirates, Patrick Mooney of The Athletic reports.

The 25-year-old struggled in 11 starts (38.2 innings) at Double-A Tennessee with a 5.59 ERA and 1.70 WHIP last season, but he'll now join the Cubs to potentially make his major-league debut. Steele is likely to be utilize in a low-leverage role.