Chicago Cubs left-hander Justin Steele departed Thursday's game against the Texas Rangers in the fifth inning and was later diagnosed with left hamstring tightness, the team announced.
After fielding a sacrifice bunt from Leody Taveras, Steele fell to the ground and grabbed the back of his left leg. He exited with training staff.
Justin Steele left the game after this play. pic.twitter.com/hK0ROAFPaS
— Marquee Sports Network (@WatchMarquee) March 29, 2024
Cubs manager Craig Counsell expects Steele to land on the injured list following an MRI, according to Maddie Lee of the Chicago Sun-Times.
The 28-year-old was pitching well against the reigning World Series champions before he departed, allowing one earned run and striking out six across 4 2/3 innings.
Steele exited his final spring training start March 22 after being struck by a comebacker. He was diagnosed with a bruised left knee.
Steele was a first-time All-Star last season and finished fifth in National League Cy Young voting after going 16-5 with a 3.06 ERA and 9.1 K/9.
