Chicago Cubs pitchers Ben Brown, Justin Steele face delayed returns

The Chicago Cubs confirmed that right‑hander Ben Brown, who has been sidelined since June with a neck issue, is symptom‑free but remains a "pre‑spring training" pitcher. Manager Craig Counsell warned that Brown is unlikely to be game‑ready before mid‑September, and even then he may not be stretched out to start.

Southpaw Justin Steele, recovering from a left flexor strain following elbow surgery, has shown progress in bullpen work. General manager Jed Hoyer reiterated that Steele will not start any games this season, but the club hopes he could contribute in a relief role if he stays healthy, potentially returning by mid‑September to aid the postseason push.