As Opening Day approaches, the Chicago Cubs are gearing up for what they hope will be a World Series run. All eyes are on Seiya Suzuki, who might be playing his last season in a Cubs uniform. However, fans will have to wait a bit longer to see him in action, as the star outfielder is sidelined with an injury.
Cubs manager Craig Counsell revealed on Saturday that Suzuki will miss the start of the season. The team is still weighing whether to place him on the injured list, with a decision due by Wednesday.
Counsell explained, “We’ve got to make a decision. Once you get past Opening Day, we’ve got to make a decision.
Does it make sense to give him some time? We got time to make that decision, but that’s kind of where we’re at,” as shared by Marquee Sports Network.
Suzuki sustained the injury while playing for Japan in the World Baseball Classic. During a Quarterfinal game against Venezuela, he attempted a steal but was caught. His foot hit the base hard during a headfirst slide, leading to his exit from the field with assistance.
This season is pivotal for both Suzuki and the Cubs, as he enters a contract year. At 31, Suzuki has spent his entire MLB career with Chicago. Last year, he delivered an impressive performance with 32 home runs, 103 RBIs, and a .245/.326/.478 slash line.
The Cubs are set to kick off the season on Thursday with a three-game series against the Washington Nationals at Wrigley Field. Fans will be eager to see how the team adapts in Suzuki's absence and who steps up to fill the void.