Chicago Cubs outfielder Seiya Suzuki is entering what very well may be the most important season of his MLB career. Coming off of a season in which he hit .245/.326/.478 with 32 home runs and 103 RBI, Suzuki goes into 2026 as a player scheduled to hit free agency in 2027. In other words, his performance this season will determine his future in Chicago and/or what kind of contract he gets on the open market.
For now, though, everyone surrounding the Cubs is holding their collective breath in regard to his health. Last night, Suzuki suffered a knee injury of unknown severity while playing for Team Japan in the World Baseball Classic.
Shohei Ohtani addresses the injury to Chicago Cubs star Seiya Suzuki
Mar 14, 2026; Miami, FL, United States; Venezuela second baseman Gleyber Torres (25) tags out Japan center fielder Seiya Suzuki (51) in the first inning during a quarterfinal game of the 2026 World Baseball Classic at loanDepot Park. Mandatory Credit: Sam Navarro-Imagn Images
Suzuki was injured early in Japan’s loss to Venezuela when he hurt his knee sliding into second base. He was removed from the game and, of course, did not return.
No imaging has been done yet, so the extent of the injury is not known.
After the game, Suzuki’s Japanese teammate, superstar Shohei Ohtani, addressed the concerning injury:
Shohei Ohtani talked to Cubs outfielder Seiya Suzuki during the game after he limped off the field with right knee pain.
“He hasn’t had any imaging done yet so right now it’s just based on how he feels,” Ohtani said. “I’m just hoping it turns out to be something positive and…
— Bob Nightengale (@BNightengale) March 15, 2026
“He hasn’t had any imaging done yet so right now it’s just based on how he feels. I’m just hoping it turns out to be something positive and that it won’t affect his season.”
The Cubs, of course, were hoping to have Suzuki as their starting right fielder this season. At best, it looks like he will be out for a couple of weeks. At worst, he will be out much longer.
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