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Suzuki Out for Opener After WBC Knee Strain
22 Mar
Summary
- Seiya Suzuki will miss the Cubs' season opener due to a knee injury.
- The injury occurred during the World Baseball Classic on March 14, 2026.
- Suzuki is entering the final season of his $85 million, five-year contract.
Chicago Cubs outfielder Seiya Suzuki will miss the team's season opener, manager Craig Counsell confirmed on Saturday, March 22, 2026. Suzuki suffered a minor ligament strain in his right knee during the World Baseball Classic.
The injury occurred on March 14, 2026, in Miami, during Japan's quarterfinal loss to Venezuela. Suzuki sustained the injury on a headfirst slide into second base. He was seen walking with a brace on his injured knee upon returning to the Cubs' spring training facility.
The Cubs open their season against Washington at Wrigley Field on Thursday. Counsell stated that Suzuki will not be ready for opening day, and the team has time to decide whether to place him on the injured list. Suzuki is entering the final season of his $85 million, five-year contract with the Cubs.
