Cubs plan for Justin Steele to return Monday vs. Padres

(670 The Score) The Cubs are ready for the return of their ace.

Cubs left-hander Justin Steele is expected to be activated Monday and start the opener of a three-game series with the Padres at Wrigley Field, the team told reporters. Steele must first complete a bullpen session Saturday to confirm his readiness.

Steele suffered a hamstring injury during the Cubs’ opener on March 28 in Texas. He held a rehab assignment on Wednesday in Des Moines with Triple-A Iowa.

Steele, 28, was an All-Star last season. He finished the year 16-5 with a 3.05 ERA and was fifth in National League Cy Young voting.

The Cubs also plan for right-hander Kyle Hendricks to make a rehab start Tuesday with Triple-A Iowa. Hendricks, who has been on the injured list with a back issue, allowed two runs over five innings in his rehab start this week with Double-A Tennessee.

Hendricks is 0-3 with a 12.00 ERA over five starts this season with the Cubs.

The Cubs open a three-game series with the Brewers beginning Friday at Wrigley Field.