Justin Steele Is Back: Keegan Thompson Optioned to Triple-A Iowa

With the injury to their ace, the Cubs have run into quite a bit of bad luck over the first month of the season. Seiya Suzuki and Cody Bellinger were also lost to injury, among a few other meaningful names.

Given the circumstances, the Cubs are still seven games above .500 and tied for first place in the NL Central after a series win against Milwaukee. It's a true testament to their pitching staff and manager Craig Counsell's best efforts. 

With Steele on the mound against the San Diego Padres, the Cubs receive an instant boost to an already dominant starting rotation. The fact that they are able to deploy rookie Ben Brown into their bullpen is also a plus.

The move potentially helps open the door for the rookie to receive some ninth inning opportunities if the team sees fit. Hector Neris has delivered, but Brown certainly has the stuff to handle it.

Keegan Thompson has had a solid start to his 2024 season, but a meltdown appearance on Saturday may have made it easier for the team to decide who goes to Iowa with Steele's return.

Now with their ace back in the fold, the Cubs will look to continue their good play while also welcoming back Cody Bellinger and Seiya Suzuki in the near future.