Cubs Lefty Steele Faces Hitters for First Time Since Surgery

Pitcher throws 19 pitches, records 3 strikeouts in live batting practice session

Mar. 13, 2026 at 9:49pm

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Chicago Cubs left-hander Justin Steele faced hitters for the first time since undergoing elbow surgery in April, throwing 19 pitches and recording three strikeouts during a live batting practice session at the team's spring training facility in Mesa, Arizona. Steele described the outing as a "big milestone" in his comeback journey, with pitching coach Tommy Hottovy noting the pitcher's fastball showed the expected cut and life.

Why it matters

Steele's successful return to facing live hitters is an important step in his recovery and preparation for the upcoming season. As a key part of the Cubs' starting rotation, Steele's availability and performance will be crucial to the team's playoff aspirations.

The details

During the live batting practice session, Steele faced teammates Michael Busch and Jonathon Long, generating some "ugly swings" from the hitters. Steele said he didn't feel any anxiety leading up to the outing, noting the rehab process has been "smooth sailing" compared to his previous Tommy John surgery recovery in 2017.

  • Steele underwent elbow surgery in April 2026.
  • Steele faced hitters for the first time since the surgery on March 13, 2026.

The players

Justin Steele

A left-handed pitcher for the Chicago Cubs who is recovering from elbow surgery.

Tommy Hottovy

The pitching coach for the Chicago Cubs who is overseeing Steele's recovery and return to the mound.

Michael Busch

A teammate of Steele's who faced him in the live batting practice session.

Jonathon Long

Another teammate of Steele's who faced him in the live batting practice session.

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What they’re saying

“Another box to check. Felt good today, that's the main thing — I was throwing strikes, putting the fastball where I wanted to for the most part. Just excited about it.”

— Justin Steele (Chicago Tribune)

“I think it went as well as he could have wanted it and hoped for it to go. Now it's just continuing to build off every outing, every live BP and making sure we don't get too far ahead of ourselves.”

— Tommy Hottovy, Pitching Coach (Chicago Tribune)

What’s next

The Cubs will continue to take a deliberate approach with Steele's buildup, keeping him on a typical five-day starter schedule as he ramps up for the season. There may be opportunities for additional work in the pitching lab or bullpen sessions, but the focus is on making sure Steele is available for playoff baseball and a potential deep October run.

The takeaway

Steele's successful return to facing live hitters is an encouraging sign for the Cubs as they look to have their left-hander fully healthy and contributing to the rotation this season. The team's measured approach to Steele's recovery should help ensure he is able to make a meaningful impact down the stretch and in the postseason.