As Opening Day approaches, the Chicago Cubs are facing some pivotal roster decisions. While most of the starting lineup is set, there’s a notable change with Alex Bregman stepping in for Kyle Tucker in the batting order. Today, we're diving into the Cubs' designated hitter (DH) situation for the 2026 season.
Last year, Seiya Suzuki was the go-to DH for 102 games, but a late-season injury saw Kyle Tucker take over during the playoffs. Justin Turner and rookie catcher Moises Ballesteros also had their turns at DH. With Tucker's departure, Suzuki is now set to be the primary right fielder, leaving the DH spot open for flexibility under manager Craig Counsell’s watchful eye.
FanGraphs.com projects a platoon strategy for the Cubs, with Ballesteros facing right-handed pitchers and Suzuki taking on lefties. This setup allows newly trained outfielder Matt Shaw to cover right field.
Bregman, turning 32 soon, will also see time at DH, helping Shaw transition back to the infield. The roster depth includes catchers Miguel Amaya and Carson Kelly, with Tyler Austin expected back mid-season post-knee surgery.
Michael Conforto, recently signed to a minor-league deal, adds another layer of depth.
Cubs Designated Hitters At A Glance
- Starters: Moises Ballesteros/Seiya Suzuki
- Backup: Alex Bregman
- Depth: Miguel Amaya, Carson Kelly, Michael Conforto, Tyler Austin
- Prospects: Jonathan Long, B.J.
Murray
The Good:
Moises Ballesteros is a standout prospect, ranked 55th overall by MLB.com. The 5-foot-8, 22-year-old left a strong impression last season, hitting .298 with an .868 OPS in 20 games.
The Cubs are keen on giving him a real shot, avoiding any roster moves that might block his development. Ballesteros is expected to bat in the lower third, easing him into the majors without immediate pressure to carry the lineup.
Projections suggest a .264/.327/.400 slash line over 84 games, but he has the potential for more.
Suzuki, fresh off a 32-homer season, is poised for another big year as he enters a contract year. His consistency in exit velocity and improved launch angle-thanks to a 16.6% barrel rate-hints at continued success. Against lefties, Suzuki anchors the lineup, while Shaw, who excelled against southpaws with an .808 OPS, adds punch lower in the order.
Areas of Concern:
Ballesteros has the potential for 20-plus homers but needs to lift the ball more. His high ground ball rate, both in the majors and Triple-A, could limit his power output. Improving his launch angle will be key to boosting the Cubs' home run tally.
While Suzuki, Michael Busch, and PCA all surpassed 30 homers last season, repeating those numbers isn't guaranteed. Bregman offers balance as a hitter, but not necessarily power. If Ballesteros struggles to elevate the ball and others regress, the Cubs might regret not acquiring a proven power hitter for the DH role.
Backup options like Conforto and Carlson have shown promise in spring training, and prospect Jonathan Long could be ready post-injury. However, Conforto hasn't been a major force since 2020, and Carlson hasn't lived up to his potential. Tyler Austin, returning from injury, remains a wildcard with a solid track record in Japan but limited MLB success.
The Bottom Line:
The Cubs' DH strategy hinges on Ballesteros making key adjustments. With a top prospect and a slugging outfielder in a platoon, plus Bregman’s versatility, the plan looks solid on paper but could test the team's depth if issues arise.
If needed, Suzuki could return to full-time DH duties, with Shaw or others stepping into right field. Bregman might also see more DH time, but removing a Gold Glove winner from the field after a major contract seems unlikely. The Cubs are betting on their young talent, and how they adjust will shape the season.