Justin Steele Scratched Due to Illness, Ben Brown Starting Instead

The Cubs have announced that Justin Steele has been scratched from Thursday’s game against the Royals due to flu-like symptoms. The ace was in line to make his third start of the spring, but that will have to wait.

Starting in his place is Ben Brown, who last pitched Saturday against the Royals. He’ll face them again in this one as he makes a run at the fifth starter spot. Brown has the best stuff among the options for the rotation, but his abbreviated 2024 season means the Cubs may look to limit his innings.