Trending Now - Suzuki's Knee Strain May Affect Opening Day Availability

WHO:

Seiya Suzuki, Chicago Cubs outfielder

Craig Counsell, Cubs manager

Edwin Stanberry, Suzuki's interpreter

Jameson Taillon, Cubs starter

Jed Hoyer, Cubs president of baseball operations

WHAT:

Suzuki has a minor strain of the posterior cruciate ligament in his right knee.

An MRI exam showed the injury is “minor in nature.”

Suzuki hit .333 (3-for-9) with two home runs, five RBIs, and six walks in the 2026 World Baseball Classic.

Suzuki had 32 home runs, 31 doubles, and 103 RBIs in 151 games during the 2025 season.

Suzuki is entering the final season of an $85 million, five-year contract.

The Cubs are considering whether Suzuki will go on the injured list.

WHERE:

Cubs spring training facility in Mesa, Arizona

loanDepot park in Miami, Florida

WHEN:

Suzuki was injured on March 11th, 2026, during a game against Venezuela.

The Cubs will make a decision about Suzuki's status on March 21st, 2026.

Opening Day is scheduled for March 26th, 2026.

WHY:

Suzuki sustained the injury while attempting to steal second base during the World Baseball Classic.

HOW:

Suzuki underwent an MRI exam to assess the extent of his knee injury.

He has been cleared to continue with light workouts as he recovers.

(UPDATED March 18, 2026 01:35 UTC)

Chicago Cubs outfielder Seiya Suzuki has been diagnosed with a minor strain of the posterior cruciate ligament in his right knee, an injury sustained while attempting to steal second base during the World Baseball Classic on March 11. An MRI revealed that the injury is minor in nature, and while Suzuki has been cleared for light workouts, the Cubs will decide on his status for the injured list on March 21, just days before Opening Day on March 26. Last season, Suzuki had an impressive performance, hitting 32 home runs and driving in 103 RBIs, and he is entering the final year of an $85 million contract.