Chicago Cubs ace pitcher Justin Steele is expected to be activated from the injured list on Monday and start the first game of the home series against the San Diego Padres.

Steele will throw a bullpen session on Saturday to ramp up for his start and ensure no lingering hamstring issues.

He recently had a successful rehab assignment with the I-Cubs on Wednesday.

Last season, Steele was dominant with a 16-5 record with a 3.05 ERA.

In other rehab news, Craig Counsell told reporters Friday that veteran pitcher Kyle Hendricks' start on Thursday with the Tennessee Smokies was "encouraging."

Hendricks had seven strikeouts in the outing.

Cubs right fielder Seiya Suzuki took batting practice today.

The Cubs will begin a three-game series with the Brewers starting Friday at Wrigley Field.