The Chicago Cubs appear to have struck gold with Pete Crow-Armstrong, who has quickly emerged as a potential cornerstone player for the franchise. But with that status comes the expectation of a lucrative long-term extension something Crow-Armstrong is reportedly seeking.
If the Cubs commit major money to their rising star, they may need to scale back spending elsewhere. FanSided’s Zachary Rotman suggests one cost-cutting move could be parting ways with Seiya Suzuki once his current deal expires.
Chicago faces looming free agency decisions with two of its starting outfielders Suzuki and Ian Happ both set to hit the market after the season. Ideally, the team would retain both players, but extending them while also paying Crow-Armstrong top-tier money may stretch the payroll beyond what the front office is comfortable with. If forced to choose, Rotman argues Happ could be the priority. Though Suzuki may hold a slight edge at the plate, Happ remains productive offensively and has captured four consecutive Gold Gloves in left field. He has also spent his entire nine-year career in Chicago and could be open to a more team-friendly contract to stay long term.
Suzuki delivered strong production this past season, batting .245 with 31 doubles, 32 home runs, and 103 RBI across 151 games. Serving primarily as a designated hitter, he played a key role in anchoring the Cubs’ lineup.
Now entering the final year of his five-year, $85 million contract, Suzuki’s future in Chicago is uncertain. The Cubs could allow him to depart in free agency, or if their postseason hopes fade, they might consider moving him at the trade deadline in exchange for prospects.
Losing Suzuki would create another outfield void — similar to the departure of Kyle Tucker — but if prioritizing Crow-Armstrong’s extension is the organization’s top objective, Chicago may feel it has little alternative.
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