Seiya Suzuki’s disappearing act is changing Cubs’ offseason priorities

Seiya Suzuki was one of the success stories of the Chicago Cubs' first half, well on the way to putting up career highs in nearly every offensive category. Suddenly, as the Cubs approach the end of the season, Suzuki, outside of his home run output, could finish the worst season of his Major League career.

Entering Tuesday's game against the Atlanta Braves, Suzuki has a slash line of .243/.321/.462. Suzuki's batting average and on base percentage would be the worst marks of his four-year career, and his slugging percentage this season would be the second-lowest of his career.

Even in terms of modern metrics, the case can be made that Suzuki has never been worse. Suzuki's wRC+ on the season, 117, would be the lowest mark of his career and his wOBA of .336 is only two ticks above his career low of .334.

Many have been quick to point to Suzuki's success during the first half of the season as a reason to not be concerned over his current slump, but that is installing a level of faith in the 31-year-old designated hitter that his career suggests he doesn't deserve.

Seiya Suzuki’s quiet stretch is shaping what comes next for Cubs

Dating back to July 15, Suzuki has been a major liability for the Cubs' offense. In nearly 200 plate appearances since then, Suzuki has a slash line of .199/.325/.267 with a wRC+ of 78 and only 2 home runs.

There's no doubt that since arriving to the Cubs, Suzuki has slashed signs of being the superstar hitter he was in Japan. However, far too many times over the last four years has he endured a slump that has derailed his season. Unlike Ian Happ, Suzuki hasn't proved capable of making an adjustment back to return to his career averages.

Plenty of decisions lie ahead for the Cubs over the next two years as nearly their entire core are without a contract after the 2026 season. The decision with Suzuki is looking easier with each passing day. With Owen Caissie and Kevin Alcantara waiting for an extended runway at the Major League level, it feels like the Cubs won't shy away from moving on from Suzuki after next season.

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