Seiya Suzuki injury may force Cubs to watch key Mets contract deadline

The Chicago Cubs remain in a holding pattern regarding the injury status of Seiya Suzuki. After suffering an injury during Japan's loss on Saturday in the World Baseball Classic quarterfinal, Suzuki returned to spring training and still had a noticeable limp. Initial evaluations from the Cubs' training staff deemed an MRI necessary, and the team has yet to reveal the results.

Craig Counsell has already confirmed that Matt Shaw would be the team's primary right fielder if Suzuki isn't ready in time for Opening Day, but an extended IL stint would create an uneasy bench situation for the team.

Michael Conforto and Dylan Carlson feel like locks to make the Opening Day roster, but the Cubs would have an open bench spot if an IL stint is needed for Suzuki. While there's a case to be made that Chas McCormick could stick around with the Cubs, considering he's already in camp, Jed Hoyer and Co. may be keeping an eye on a key New York Mets contract deadline.

Former Chicago Cubs outfielder Mike Tauchman signed a minor-league deal with the Mets at the start of spring training, and his deal includes an opt-out clause on March 25. In other words, the Mets have to roster Tauchman by March 25, or he can opt out of his deal and seek an opportunity elsewhere.

A reunion with Mike Tauchman still may not be off the table for the Cubs, especially after Seiya Suzuki's injury.

Tauchman has done his part during spring training, slashing .333/.481/.619 with a wRC+ of 189 in 27 plate appearances, but the circumstances surrounding New York's Opening Day roster could squeeze the veteran outfielder out of a spot.

The question for the Cubs would then become whether they would prefer McCormick's defense over Tauchman's bat.

While the Cubs' front office has often preferred defensive versatility when it comes to the spots on the bench, it can't be overlooked that losing Suzuki would be a significant blow to the team's offense. That could push the Cubs toward Tauchman, assuming he opts out of his contract with the Mets.