The Chicago Cubs have plenty of players contributing at the World Baseball Classic, including Seiya Suzuki, who is a key part of Team Japan. The 31‑year‑old will be entering the final year of his five‑year, $85 million contract once his run at the WBC comes to an end.
Suzuki has been an excellent addition to the Cubs’ lineup when available. Across 532 games with the organization, he has posted a .269 batting average, .346 on‑base percentage, .818 OPS, 87 home runs and 296 RBIs. Last year, Suzuki played a major role in helping Chicago return to the MLB playoffs.
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He has taken that production to another level with Japan. Through his first four games of pool play, Suzuki posted a .333 batting average, .600 on‑base percentage, 1.600 OPS, two home runs and five RBIs.
Chicago Cubs designated hitter Seiya Suzuki (27)© Kamil Krzaczynski-Imagn Images
(© Kamil Krzaczynski-Imagn Images)
However, disaster struck for Suzuki on Saturday during Japan’s quarterfinal matchup against Venezuela. Suzuki walked in his first plate appearance in the bottom of the first inning and attempted to steal second base to put himself in scoring position.
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He was thrown out, but it was immediately clear something was wrong. Suzuki was in visible discomfort after being tagged out and needed assistance from trainers as he struggled to put weight on his right leg.
He was officially removed from the game in the top of the second inning when Shota Morishita took over in center field. As the game continued, the Fox broadcast reported that Suzuki exited with right knee discomfort (h/t Kevin Barral of Fish on First).
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For the Cubs, this is the worst‑case scenario. Seeing Suzuki sustain an injury while away from the team puts immediate pressure on younger outfielders to be ready to step in.
Chicago’s lineup also becomes significantly weaker without Suzuki’s bat, and with Opening Day just days away, there is little time to find a suitable replacement for his production. Suzuki’s injury will continue to be monitored closely as the Cubs await further updates and brace for the possibility of starting the season without one of their most important players.
Related: Cubs Lose Two Players to Injury Before Opening Day
This story was originally published by Athlon Sports on Mar 15, 2026, where it first appeared in the MLB section. Add Athlon Sports as a Preferred Source by clicking here.