Cubs get a reality check with Jim Bowden tabbing a clear Seiya Suzuki favorite

An offseason tradition like none other is former MLB general manager Jim Bowden running through his top free agents for the offseason ahead, providing the best fits for each free agent, and the expected contract figure. The Chicago Cubs get a mention from Bowden in his set-up for the predictions, suggesting that there could be significant turnover, considering the number of free agents they have.

Bowden ranks the top 40 free agents from this offseason's class, and coming in at No. 6 is Seiya Suzuki. While Suzuki has been viewed by some to be the best position player available on the free-agent market this winter, Bowden does have Japanese third baseman Teruaki Sato and Randy Arozarena ahead of him.

Arozarena makes sense, considering the year he had with the Seattle Mariners in 2026, but Sato does feel like a bit of a reach. Nonetheless, for Suzuki, Bowden points to a contract worth $120 million for five years.

More curious, Bowden only had two "best team fits" for Suzuki. The teams mentioned are the Toronto Blue Jays and Philadelphia Phillies. It feels light, and considering the offensive numbers Suzuki has had over the last two years, any team in need of an outfielder will likely have him on their radar this winter.

Blue Jays remain a major threat to Cubs' Seiya Suzuki reunion hopes

Though, Bowden does share a tune that has been present since the end of the regular season. The Toronto Blue Jays not only are interested in Suzuki, but might be the favorite.

"There is a lot of scuttlebutt in the industry that the Blue Jays are going to be targeting him as they look to add more offense to their outfield and more protection in their lineup for Vladimir Guerrero Jr."

Even if Suzuki is not the top position player available this offseason, it seems clear that he will be in the top three. With the Cubs having a need for pitching, it's hard to see a scenario where Jed Hoyer and Co. would engaged in a bidding war for Suzuki.

That's going to be especially true if there's a fast-paced nature to signings in November. The expectation is that free agents like Suzuki will be looking to sign before the lockout after December 1. With the Cubs having an overwhelming need for pitching, they may not be in a position to go to the top of the market for Suzuki's contract without knowing what their pitching staff will look like.

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