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April has been a difficult month for fantasy baseball managers, as several significant players have been sidelined with various injuries. In one of the most devastating blows of the year so far, the Chicago Cubs announced that their ace, Justin Steele, will miss the remainder of 2025 after sustaining a significant elbow injury.
The 29-year-old has been a steady force for the Chicago Cubs in recent seasons, earning an All-Star selection in 2023. Unfortunately for both Justin Steele and the fantasy baseball managers who drafted him, the superstar's 2025 campaign is over before it ever really started.
Now, managers will need to do their best to replace Steele on their rosters by scouring the waiver wire or even through a trade.
Here's a closer look at 5 intriguing replacements for Justin Steele in fantasy baseball leagues right now
#1 - Hayden Wesneski
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Hayden Wesneski has been an underrated gem for the Houston Astros after acquiring him the the Kyle Tucker blockbuster deal this offseason. The 27-year-old looks impressive early this season for his new club, and even though he has struggled to keep runs off the board, he has thrown at least 6.0 innings in two of his starts. He has also only issued 3 walks over 18.0 innings of work.
#2 - Jose Soriano
Jose Soriano might not be the sexiest name among fantasy baseball managers, however, he has been solid so far this year for the Los Angeles Angels. While he might be more of a glorified streaming option than a long-term replacement, he could provide Steele owners with some quality innings in the short term.
#3 - Drew Rasmussen
Drew Rasmussen has been sharp for the Tampa Bay Rays this season and is an intriguing fit for Justin Steele managers looking for a replacement who could be an option for the remainder of the year. The veteran starter has yet to throw over 5.0 innings this season, which could limit him in leagues that count quality starts. He has only surrendered a single run over 15.0 innings.
#4 - Taijuan Walker
The Philadelphia Phillies are one of the top teams in Major League Baseball, so getting any part of the roster is never a bad idea in fantasy baseball leagues. Enter Taijuan Walker, who has been a strong option for the Phils so far despite his roller coaster career.
Walker can be a frustrating pitcher to own at times, given his inconsistencies. However, when he is locked in, he can be a game-changer.
#5 - Matthew Boyd
If you are going to replace Justin Steele, why not look to one of his own teammates? Even though Matthew Boyd was already a member of the Chicago Cubs' rotation, his role is only more solidified with Steele's injury.
The veteran has been solid so far for the Cubs, posting a 1.59 ERA and 17 strikeouts over 17.0 innings of work. He could be worth a shot for fantasy baseball managers right now.
