With injuries mounting, the Chicago Cubs need all they can get to reverse their fortunes on a below-.500 road trip. Jameson Taillon's impending return may be what the doctor ordered.
The Cubs' rotation is in flux at the moment. While the team has been able to count on Shota Imanaga, they have seen no relief when it comes to Kyle Hendricks and his struggles.
Already without their ace since opening weekend, the Cubs had to dig deep into their pitching depth to remain afloat. Javier Assad and Jordan Wicks have done all they can to keep the Cubs in it, but a much-needed return from Taillon should significantly help matters.
Taillon has looked sharp in his rehab outings, and the Cubs will be looking for him to carry that over in his next appearance at the big-league level.
With Taillon close, all that remains between the Cubs and a healthy rotation will be Steele. The left-hander had a bullpen session on Saturday, an encouraging step in his recovery.
Manager Craig Counsell said Steele won't return in April, but May seems to be in the cards. The quicker the ace can take the mound the better off the team will be in its pursuit of postseason play.
Following their series in Seattle, the Cubs will face the Arizona Diamondbacks and Miami Marlins. Those NL foes haven't had ideal early showings so far this season but still have the talent to make things difficult on this Cubs team.
More must-reads: