Understanding Justin Steele’s Evolution as a Pitcher
For much of his early career, Justin Steele’s role within the Chicago Cubs organization remained uncertain. Questions lingered about his potential as a starter versus a reliever, and whether he could shoulder the burden of a full season. The 2022 season started with doubts; however, a remarkable transformation over the latter half of that year set the stage for his current success.
The Shift in Performance
Initially, Steele struggled to find his footing. By mid-2022, his earned run average (ERA) hovered above 5.00, and he managed to complete five innings in only one of his first six starts. Yet, as the season progressed, he found a rhythm. Over the final 18 starts, Steele averaged more than 5 1/3 innings per outing with a significantly improved ERA of 2.69. This marked a turning point and demonstrated his resilience and adaptability on the mound.
Fast forward to 2023, and Steele continued to build on this foundation. He recorded a strong 3.06 ERA and garnered recognition with his first All-Star nomination, ultimately finishing fifth in the National League Cy Young Award voting. His performance solidified his place as a reliable starter, a shift that manager Craig Counsell acknowledged with confidence: “Justin’s definitely established a track record… That’s not easy to do, and it’s a real credit to Justin.”
Setting Goals for the Future
With the 2024 season, Steele faced challenges, including a hamstring strain on Opening Day and an elbow issue that limited him to 24 starts. Despite these setbacks, his consistency has been a beacon of hope for the Cubs. Both Steele and Counsell have emphasized the importance of durability, setting ambitious goals for the upcoming season. Steele articulated their shared vision: “Definitely on the same page as far as getting 30-plus starts and 180-plus innings.”
The focus on health and performance highlights a broader trend in professional sports: the importance of physical care and injury prevention. Steele’s commitment to maintaining his physical condition during the offseason reflects a growing awareness among athletes regarding the balance between training intensity and the risk of injury.
Adapting to the League’s Changes
As Steele establishes himself, the question arises: can he further elevate his game? Counsell suggests the key lies not in overhauling his pitching mechanics or repertoire but in maintaining his health and adapting to the evolving nature of the league. “The league’s adjusting to you, and you have to adjust to the league,” he noted, emphasizing the ongoing chess match between pitchers and hitters.
This dynamic is particularly crucial in a competitive environment where analytics and scouting reports play significant roles in how players prepare. Steele will need to continuously refine his approach while leveraging his existing strengths, which include an impressive ability to avoid hard contact.
The Cubs’ Competitive Landscape
The Cubs find themselves in a unique position within the National League Central. Unlike the heavily favored teams such as the Los Angeles Dodgers and Atlanta Braves, the Cubs have invested in upgrades across their roster, including their lineup and bullpen. This enhanced depth could prove pivotal as they aim for a playoff return in 2025.
Steele’s role will be central to this pursuit. With the team’s aspirations clearly defined, Steele’s performance and health become even more critical. As he stated, “I think it’s kind of expected in the locker room,” highlighting the collective mindset aimed at achieving postseason success.
Conclusion
Justin Steele’s journey from uncertainty to reliability is emblematic of the broader challenges and triumphs faced by professional athletes. His evolution as a pitcher, marked by resilience, consistency, and a commitment to health, sets a promising foundation for the Chicago Cubs. As the team navigates a competitive landscape, Steele’s contributions will be crucial. The intersection of personal ambition and team goals creates an exciting narrative as the 2025 season approaches, and fans eagerly anticipate what lies ahead for this promising pitcher.