Seiya Suzuki to start season on injured list as Cubs weigh roster options

On March 24, 2026, the Chicago Cubs confirmed that right fielder Seiya Suzuki will begin the season on the injured list while recovering from a sprain of the posterior cruciate ligament in his right knee. Manager Craig Counsell said the move could be backdated to Sunday, potentially clearing Suzuki to rejoin the team as early as April 1, though Counsell indicated the Cleveland series next weekend is a more likely target if progress is steady.

Suzuki, wearing a brace he described as uncomfortable, has been able to run at limited speed and take indoor batting work. Counsell said the club needs “a good week” of recovery to pinpoint a return timeline. The team has not decided whether Suzuki will remain in Arizona for rehab or travel with the club to Chicago for further treatment.

Meanwhile, roster decisions continued to take shape in Mesa. Utilityman Matt Shaw covered right field after outfielder Michael Conforto was informed he made the team, and two open bench spots remain unsettled with Dylan Carlson, Kevin Alcantara and Scott Kingery under consideration. Right-hander Javier Assad was optioned to Triple-A as a starter; Ben Brown claimed the final major-league pitching slot and joins a bullpen that includes Daniel Palencia, Colin Rea, Phil Maton, Hunter Harvey, Jacob Webb, Caleb Thielbar and Hoby Milner. The club also reported progress on a long-term extension for center fielder Pete Crow-Armstrong, while lefty Shota Imanaga closed his spring with five innings and will make his first regular-season start Sunday against Washington.