Happy Birthday, Justin Steele — The Ace the Cubs Have Missed All Season

Today marks another year around the sun for Justin Steele and his son, Beau, and Chicago Cubs fans everywhere should take a moment to celebrate the guy who’s been everything this team has needed over the last few seasons, except, of course, in 2025.

That’s no fault of his own. Steele underwent surgery earlier this year to repair the flexor tendon in his left elbow, a serious setback that ended his season before it truly began. While he’s off the diamond, he continues to be a steady presence around the team, there’s no way around it:

The Cubs miss him — badly.

What the Numbers Can’t Replace

Justin Steele wasn’t just another lefty. He was the guy. In 2023, he finished with a 3.06 ERA across 30 starts, cementing himself as one of the most dependable arms in the National League. He had poise, command, and that quiet edge that makes great pitchers feel inevitable.

In 2024, before the elbow issues surfaced, he picked up right where he left off. Steele thrived by getting ground balls, limiting hard contact, and throwing deep into games. His game wasn’t flashy but it was built on precision and consistency. This is exactly what this year’s Cubs rotation has been missing.

There’s no stat for presence. But every fifth day, when Steele was available, the Cubs knew what they were getting. That kind of trust is hard to come by.

A Glaring Void in the Rotation

Yes, Shota Imanaga has been excellent. Yes, the rise of Cade Horton has injected excitement. Nevertheless, picture a healthy Justin Steele sitting atop that group, keeping games tight, saving the bullpen, and setting the tone for the rest of the staff.

Without him, the Cubs have had to piece it together, relying on arms who haven’t quite matched the bar that Steele set. The rotation has lacked its anchor. The staff has missed its rhythm. This team, at times, has looked like it’s waiting for someone to steady the ship.

In a long season, having a true No. 1 starter makes a difference. In 2025, the Cubs haven’t had that luxury.

A Leader, Even From the Sidelines

To his credit, Steele has remained close to the team through it all. He’s the kind of leader who doesn’t need to talk loud to be heard. Whether he’s working through rehab, talking mechanics with younger pitchers, or just showing up, he continues to set the tone.

But make no mistake — there is no substitute for him being on the mound.

Steele competes. He sets the standard and he gives the Cubs something they can build around. Players like that don’t come around often and when they’re gone, you feel it.

Final Thought: Get Well Soon — And Happy Birthday

So today, while fans light up social media with birthday wishes, this is more than just a nod to another year. It’s a reminder of what this team has been without our ace.

Justin Steele didn’t go anywhere, but his absence has said a lot. The Cubs have missed his fire, his control, and the quiet confidence he brought to every outing. He was the one guy you never worried about. He just showed up, competed, and won games.

So here’s to the ace we’ve been missing all season. Happy Birthday to a pitcher who means more to this franchise than numbers can show. You are missed. You are valued. You are still very much the heart of this rotation — even when you’re away.