Justin Steele

Justin Steele endured a rough outing, allowing five earned runs on six hits and one walk while striking out seven over 5.2 innings in Thursday's 5-4 loss to the Pirates.

Fantasy Impact

This performance nudges his ERA up to a concerning 5.68 through four starts this season. Despite a decent WHIP of 1.21 and a solid strikeout rate (8.5 K/9), Steele's inconsistency in run prevention is a red flag for fantasy managers. His FIP standing at 5.43 suggests that his struggles may not just be a matter of bad luck, as indicated by a relatively normal BABIP of .255. Owners should be cautious, as his ability to eat innings without significant damage is currently in question.

Justin Steele had a rough outing on Saturday, allowing six earned runs on six hits and two walks while striking out three over four innings in the Cubs' 10-9 loss to the Pirates.

Fantasy Impact

This performance certainly didn't help his already middling season stats, pushing his ERA up to 4.73 and his FIP to an unsettling 5.43. Despite a decent WHIP of 1.20 and a BABIP that suggests some bad luck, Steele's inability to limit runs or go deep into games is a red flag for fantasy managers. His strikeout rate remains unimpressive at 7.4 K/9, and today's game underscores a potentially volatile element in fantasy lineups. Owners should consider Steele a risky play, best suited for matchups against less formidable offenses.

Justin Steele delivered a strong performance in Monday's 6-3 loss to the Padres.

Fantasy Impact

He tossed 4.2 innings, allowing no earned runs on three hits and one walk while striking out two. Despite Steele's solid outing, his efforts weren't enough to secure a win for the Cubs, reflecting the ongoing struggle of the team to capitalize on quality starts. Steele's season ERA now impressively stands at 0.96, with a WHIP of 0.86, indicating high-level pitching that should keep him relevant in fantasy leagues. Fantasy managers should value his ability to maintain low scoring and WHIP, but temper expectations for big strikeout numbers.

The Cubs have activated Justin Steele (hamstring) from the IL.

Fantasy Impact

Steele has been out of action with a strained left hamstring. He only made one rehab appearance, so he could be on a limited pitch count Monday.

Justin Steele (hamstring) will return from the IL to start Monday if his bullpen session on Saturday goes well.

Fantasy Impact

Steele made his first rehab start Wednesday since going down with a hamstring injury during his first start of the season. He threw 63 pitches and looks to be ready to return to the Cubs' rotation. Confirmation of the move will need to wait for his bullpen session on Saturday, but all signs point to the Cubs' ace returning to action vs the Padres.