Cubs Star Suzuki on the Verge of a Comeback, and It Cannot Come Soon Enough

Chicago Cubs right fielder Seiya Suzuki is tantalizingly close to getting back on the field. Manager Craig Counsell confirmed that the 31-year-old is eligible to come off the injured list this weekend, but the team is taking the smart route and sending him to the minors first to shake off the rust and get some legitimate at-bats before rejoining the lineup.

Tests Are Passing, the Path Forward Is Clear

Suzuki passed a battery of tests on Tuesday that put him through the kind of movements that matter in a real game. "Today was really trying to put him through one last test and that including some stops/starts, kind of unexpected moves on the bases," Counsell said. "He did (some) sliding. So we're in a really good space."

The Cubs are being deliberate about where they'll send him for his rehab assignment, waiting on weather reports from the Double-A and Triple-A clubs to make the final call. This is not hesitation. This is a team protecting one of its most valuable assets.

The Injury That Sidelined Him

Suzuki has been out since mid-March after suffering a right knee injury during a stolen base attempt in the WBC quarterfinals against Venezuela. The diagnosis: a minor PCL strain. It sounds minor in name only. The team could theoretically bring him back as a designated hitter right now, but Counsell is not having it. "We'll activate him when he's ready to play right field," the manager said. Full health. Full capabilities. No shortcuts.

Why This Matters

This is huge for the Cubs because Suzuki was immense in 2025. He crushed a career high 32 home runs and drove in 103 runs, production that helped push Chicago to the postseason for the first time since 2020. That kind of power and consistency does not grow on trees. And here is the kicker: he hits free agency at the end of this season. Getting him back healthy and productive is not just about winning now. It is about showing what he can do on a full stage before he potentially hits the open market.

Expect Suzuki back in a Cubs uniform within days. The team has its star on the horizon.

This article was created with AI assistance and reviewed by Seattle On Tap editorial staff. Always verify information with official team sources.