Cubs Set to Activate Seiya Suzuki on April 10
Seiya Suzuki is approaching his return to the Chicago Cubs following a minor league rehabilitation stint with Double-A Knoxville. According to Cubs manager Craig Counsell, Suzuki is expected to be activated from the 10-day injured list before the team’s upcoming game against the Pittsburgh Pirates on April 10.
Rehabilitation Progress
Currently, Suzuki has played three games in Knoxville, starting twice in right field and once as a designated hitter (DH). He is scheduled to participate in games on Tuesday and Wednesday to gain more on-field experience before the Cubs finalize his activation.
Counsell emphasized the importance of Suzuki’s readiness, noting, “We’re probably dealing with at-bats as much as anything here.” He remarked on Suzuki’s limited spring training due to the World Baseball Classic and a subsequent PCL sprain, which occurred during a game against Venezuela on March 14.
Impact on the Cubs Lineup
The activation of Suzuki will notably affect player Matt Shaw, who has filled in at right field during Suzuki’s absence. Shaw will likely continue to take on a versatile role, contributing around the diamond as needed, especially when Suzuki is designated as DH.
Moises Ballesteros has served as Chicago’s primary DH but has struggled with his performance. In light of Suzuki’s return, the Cubs may consider optioning Ballesteros to Triple-A in order to maintain his exposure to Major League pitching.
Potential Roster Changes
| Player | Status |
|---|---|
| Matt Shaw | Will continue as a super-sub |
| Moises Ballesteros | Possible option to Triple-A |
| Michael Conforto | 1 hit in 10 plate appearances |
| Dylan Carlson | Limited appearances |
| Scott Kingery | Limited appearances |
With Suzuki’s imminent return, the Cubs face a challenging decision on how to adjust their roster. The team may designate one of the lower-performing players such as Conforto, Carlson, or Kingery for assignment to make room for Suzuki.
Contract and Future Considerations
As Suzuki approaches the final year of his five-year, $85 million contract signed in 2022, his performance this season will be critical for his future. Over four seasons, he has achieved a batting average of .269 with 87 home runs, and holds a 127 wRC+ and 11.1 fWAR.
At 32 years old, Suzuki’s statistics will play a vital role in securing another significant contract, whether with the Cubs or another team next winter.
