Seiya Suzuki headed for tests
Japan outfielder Seiya Suzuki limped off in the WBC quarterfinal and is being sent back to Cubs camp for knee exams — Chicago is waiting on imaging and specialist results to determine severity after he exited the game vs Venezuela Sun‑Times Sporting News.
The play that ended Suzuki’s night came in the bottom of the first when he was caught stealing second at loanDepot Park in Miami on March 14, 2026. (mlb.com) Japan’s staff listed the problem as a right‑knee contusion, and Suzuki did not return to the quarterfinal after walking off the field with visible discomfort. (sportsnet.ca) Chicago arranged for Suzuki to rejoin the club at its Spring Training complex in Mesa so team physicians can perform on‑site evaluations, with imaging and specialist reviews lined up once he’s back. (chicago.suntimes.com) The Cubs will use those imaging results to set a timetable for availability, with the club’s Opening Day scheduled for March 26 at Wrigley Field — a calendar target that figures into how quickly tests and consultations must be completed. (mlb.com) Suzuki, 31, is entering the final season of a five‑year, $85 million contract with Chicago, a contract detail the organization will weigh as medical staff deliver a diagnosis. (nbcchicago.com) Team Japan was eliminated by Venezuela 8‑5 in the quarterfinal, and MLB.com reported Suzuki was expected to report back to the Cubs on Sunday, March 15, 2026, to begin the club’s evaluation process. (sportingnews.com)
