The Chicago Cubs face several roster challenges this offseason, but outfield depth is not one of them. With a strong group that includes defensive standout Pete Crow-Armstrong, high-profile players like Cody Bellinger and Ian Happ, and the productive Seiya Suzuki, the team finds itself in a position where a trade may be necessary. Such a move could free up financial flexibility and improve the lineup, especially with multiple top-100 prospects on the horizon aiming to make their Major League debuts in the coming years.
Cody Bellinger has been a frequent subject of trade rumors ever since he opted into his $27.5 million player option for 2025. However, according to Joel Sherman of the New York Post, if the Cubs are unable to find a taker for Bellinger, Seiya Suzuki could be the one on the trade block. Sherman reported that the Cubs are “determined” to move either Bellinger or Suzuki during the Winter Meetings to address other needs on their roster.
Trading Suzuki would not be an easy decision, but it makes practical sense. Suzuki is set to earn nearly $20 million in 2025 and has only two years of team control remaining in Chicago. Although dealing him might be painful, his value on the trade market is high, and the Cubs could potentially secure a significant return. Suzuki has steadily improved during his three seasons in Major League Baseball, making him an attractive asset for other teams. In 2024, he posted a .283 batting average with an .848 OPS, hit a career-high 21 home runs, and demonstrated increasing power potential each season.
Despite his trade value, parting with Suzuki would likely be unpopular among fans. Many see him as the Cubs’ most reliable and productive offensive player. Compared to Bellinger, Suzuki represents a steadier and more consistent presence in the lineup. While Bellinger is also under contract through 2026, his deal includes another opt-out after the 2025 season, making him a less appealing option for teams seeking long-term security. Additionally, the Cubs would likely need to absorb part of Bellinger’s salary to facilitate a trade.
One significant hurdle in trading either player is their full no-trade clauses, which require their approval before any deal can be finalized. This complicates efforts to move them, as both players hold the power to veto trades that don’t align with their preferences.
If the Cubs do proceed with a trade, Suzuki appears to be the more desirable option for other teams due to his offensive consistency, upward trajectory, and relatively team-friendly contract. While such a move could strengthen the Cubs’ roster overall, it would come with the cost of losing one of their most dependable contributors.
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