The Cubs have been without Coby Bellinger and Seiya Suzuki for some time due to injury. On Monday, Craig Counsell gave an update on their conditions and when fans can expect to see them back on the field
Chicago Cubs ace Justin Steele will make his long-awaited return to the mound on Monday night, taking on the San Diego Padres at Wrigley Field.
In a corresponding roster move, the Cubs have optioned pitcher Keegan Thompson to Triple-A Iowa, according to the team.
Steele hasn’t pitched for the Cubs since Opening Day, when he suffered a hamstring injury in the fifth inning of his start against the Texas Rangers. He struck out six batters and gave up one earned run before pulling the muscle while fielding a ground ball against the defending champions.
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In 30 starts last season, Steele posted a 16-5 record with a 3.06 ERA, with 176 strikeouts and just 36 walks. He was named a National League All-Star for the first time in his career, and finished fifth in National League Cy Young voting.
Thompson has had a largely successful run with the Cubs this season, with 14 strikeouts in 10.2 innings. He has posted a 3.38 ERA in seven total appearances with the North Siders this season.
The Cubs and Padres will kick off their series on Monday night at Wrigley, with first pitch set for 6:40 p.m.
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