Seiya Suzuki arrived in Chicago in 2022 as one of the most anticipated international signings the Cubs had made in years. Three seasons later, he’s no longer a prospect to watch — he’s a cornerstone of their lineup. In 2026, he’s hitting .274 with 19 home runs, 64 RBI, and a .850 OPS. Not flashy on the surface, but exactly the kind of steady production a team builds around.
Quick Facts
- Full name: Seiya Suzuki
- Position: Right fielder
- Team: Chicago Cubs
- Number: 27
- Bats / Throws: Right / Right
- Born: August 18, 1994 — Arakawa, Tokyo, Japan
- MLB debut: April 7, 2022
Background
Suzuki grew up in Arakawa, a district of Tokyo, where baseball isn’t just a sport — it’s part of the culture. He developed into a star in Japan’s professional leagues before making the jump to the majors, debuting with the Cubs on April 7, 2022. From day one, he showed he belonged at this level.
Professional Career
Suzuki has been a consistent presence in the Cubs’ lineup since his debut, and his numbers have only gotten more interesting as he’s settled in.
His 2024 season was one of his most complete: .283 AVG, 21 home runs, 73 RBI, and a .848 OPS — with 16 stolen bases that reminded everyone he’s more than just a power bat. In 2025, the power spiked with 32 home runs and 103 RBI, though his average dipped to .245. In 2026, he’s found the balance again — .274 AVG, 19 HR, 64 RBI, and a .850 OPS.
Season-by-Season Stats
- 2026 — Cubs: .274 AVG | 19 HR | 64 RBI | 62 R | .850 OPS | 1 SB
- 2025 — Cubs: .245 AVG | 32 HR | 103 RBI | 75 R | .804 OPS | 5 SB
- 2024 — Cubs: .283 AVG | 21 HR | 73 RBI | 74 R | .848 OPS | 16 SB
Awards and Recognition
Suzuki hasn’t won an MLB MVP or Silver Slugger yet, but his name comes up in All-Star conversations every year. He arrived in the big leagues with credibility already built — he was a recognized star in Japan — and has spent every season since earning the respect of Cubs fans on his own terms. In Chicago’s post-contention rebuild, he’s become one of the faces of the franchise’s offensive identity.
What Sets Him Apart
Teammates have pointed to Suzuki’s work ethic as something that stands out even in a clubhouse full of talented players. That dedication traces back to Japanese baseball culture, where the craft is taken seriously at every level. It shows up in the consistency of his at-bats, his approach at the plate, and the way he carries himself day to day. He’s adapted to MLB without losing what made him great in Japan — and that’s not as easy as it sounds.
