Cubs: The hits just keep on coming for sensation Seiya Suzuki

On one hand, the numbers rookie Cubs outfielder Seiya Suzuki is putting up are wholly unsustainable. But on the other, all the little things he does on the field are very sustainable – and even when he cools off, it’s safe to assume he’ll continue to impact the game in just about every way imaginable.

In Monday’s 4-2 win over Tampa Bay, Suzuki kept on rolling, going 2-for-3 while also reaching on a hit by pitch. In his four trips to the plate, he saw a staggering 22 pitches – showcasing his patience, which has quickly become an everyday ‘must-see’ item for Cubs faithful.

After years of the exciting, but sporadic, offensive showings that saw as many lackluster performances as crooked numbers, this gritty, hard-nosed approach we’ve seen through the first 10 games of the 2022 campaign has been a breath of fresh air. Despite being a rookie and getting his first taste of big league action, Suzuki has led the way – and done so in dramatic fashion.

Chicago ranks second in all of baseball with an .803 team OPS, trailing only the Rockies, who check in at .805. They’re one point off the best OBP in the league, as well, behind the surging New York Mets, and third in slugging percentage. While we don’t know if it’ll last, entering action on Tuesday, the Cubs are tied with the rival Cardinals atop the NL Central standings.

Without Suzuki, it’s safe to say that likely wouldn’t be the case. He’s smacked a team-high four home runs – two pull and two to the opposite field  – and also possesses arguably the best speed on the team, something David Ross pointed out after Monday’s win.

"“That was a great effort,” Ross told MLB.com. “He runs the bases well. I haven’t asked him to steal a lot of bases yet. I think that is a weapon we can try to use a little bit later on. His instincts are just really good, and his speed helps with that.”"

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It would be one thing if all he brought to the table was a patient approach. But that approach is just the tip of the iceberg for the Cubs’ big position player free agent pickup. He’s done nothing but dominated since the season began – and I can’t wait to see what he’s got in store for us next.