With Taillon On The IL, This Cubs Reliever Is The Ideal Starting Pitcher Replacement

Michael

2 min read

Post on Jul 12, 2025

4.9

Share

With Taillon on the IL, This Cubs Reliever is the Ideal Starting Pitcher Replacement

The Chicago Cubs are facing a crucial moment in their season. With ace Jameson Taillon hitting the injured list (IL), a significant hole has opened up in their starting rotation. While the initial reaction might be panic, a closer look reveals a potential solution already within the bullpen: the surprisingly effective Justin Steele. While not a conventional choice, Steele’s recent performance strongly suggests he's the ideal internal replacement.

Steele's Unexpected Rise: Initially known for his relief appearances, Steele has quietly developed into a force to be reckoned with. His impressive strikeout numbers, combined with a growing command of his diverse pitching repertoire, make him a compelling candidate to step into a starting role. He's consistently shown the ability to go deep into games, a critical attribute for a starting pitcher.

Why Steele is the Perfect Fit: Several factors point to Steele's suitability for this unexpected promotion.

• Impressive Velocity and Movement: Steele possesses a fastball that consistently sits in the mid-90s, complemented by a devastating slider and a developing changeup. This arsenal gives him the ability to overpower hitters and keep them off balance.
• Improved Command and Control: Early in his career, Steele struggled with command. However, recent performances showcase a marked improvement in his ability to hit his spots consistently, a key element for success as a starting pitcher.
• Proven Durability: Unlike some relievers who struggle with workload increases, Steele has shown the stamina to pitch multiple innings effectively, giving the Cubs confidence in his ability to handle the demands of a starting role.
• Bullpen Depth: The Cubs bullpen boasts sufficient depth to absorb Steele's departure. This allows the team to make the move without significantly weakening another crucial aspect of their game.

The Challenge Ahead: While Steele's transition appears seamless on paper, the shift from relief to starting pitching presents its own challenges. Managing his pitch count, adapting his training regimen, and maintaining consistency over a longer timeframe will be crucial. The Cubs coaching staff will need to carefully monitor his workload to prevent fatigue and injuries.

Looking Ahead: The Cubs' success during Taillon’s absence hinges significantly on Steele’s performance. His success will be a crucial factor determining the team's playoff aspirations. This unexpected opportunity could catapult Steele into a prominent role within the Cubs' long-term plans, showcasing the often-overlooked potential within a team's existing roster. This situation highlights the importance of player development and the unpredictable nature of baseball.

Related Articles:

• [Link to an article about Jameson Taillon's injury]
• [Link to an article about the Chicago Cubs' playoff chances]
• [Link to an article about bullpen management in baseball]

Call to Action: What are your thoughts on Steele's promotion to the starting rotation? Share your predictions in the comments below!