Cubs Place Seiya Suzuki on IL, Opt for Javier Assad

The Chicago Cubs have placed outfielder Seiya Suzuki on the 10-day injured list, confirming manager Craig Counsell on Monday. Suzuki is recovering from a sprained posterior cruciate ligament in his right knee. The Cubs had already anticipated this move by planning to select the contract of outfielder Michael Conforto, who is set to step in during Suzuki’s absence.

Impact of Seiya Suzuki’s Injury

Suzuki, 31, had a standout season last year, playing in a career-high 151 games. He posted a batting average of .245 with a .326 on-base percentage and a slugging percentage of .478. Additionally, he launched 32 home runs, which marked his highest season total since joining MLB from Japan’s Nippon Professional Baseball.

• Suzuki’s Career Highlights:
  • Games Played: 151
  • Batting Average: .245
  • Home Runs: 32
  • Contract Status: Final season of five-year, $85 million deal

With Suzuki sidelined, the Cubs are looking at alternative options. Conforto joins non-roster invitee Dylan Carlson and former top prospect Kevin Alcantara as potential replacements. Both Carlson and Alcantara remain in contention for a spot on the opening day roster.

Javier Assad’s Role and Performance

In a related move, the Cubs have optioned right-handed pitcher Javier Assad to Triple-A Iowa. Assad will continue as a starter after being considered for a bullpen role in the majors. He missed the latter half of the previous season due to a severe oblique strain.

• Javier Assad Highlights:
  • Age: 27
  • 2025 Season ERA: 3.65 over 37 major league innings
  • Controllable for two additional years via arbitration
  • Annual Salary: Guaranteed $1.8 million

Ben Brown’s Performance

Additionally, right-hander Ben Brown has secured the final spot in the Cubs’ bullpen. Last season, Brown struggled with a 5.92 ERA over 106 1/3 innings. He performed better as a reliever, posting a 4.99 ERA, highlighting the potential for more effective outings under this role.

• Ben Brown Metrics:
  • ERA as Reliever: 4.99
  • ERA as Starter: 6.30
  • Control: 30.5% strikeout rate as a reliever
  • Contract: One minor league option remaining

As the Cubs prepare for the season, the performance of Conforto, Carlson, and Alcantara will be critical. Meanwhile, they will monitor Suzuki’s recovery and anticipate his eventual return to the lineup.