“I Want to Be Here”: Seiya Suzuki, Craig Counsell Champion Extension as Cubs Face Key Decision.vc
After 11.1 bWAR in four seasons and a stellar 2025 first half, the 31-year-old outfielder has proven his value, leaving fans “desperate” for a new deal.
CHICAGO — A powerful fan movement is building for the Chicago Cubs to secure one of their core players for the foreseeable future. Outfielder Seiya Suzuki, who has been described as a “pillar” for the franchise since his arrival, is the subject of growing calls for a contract extension.
After four productive seasons, Suzuki has solidified himself as a fan favorite and a clubhouse leader. With vocal support from fans and even manager Craig Counsell, the pressure is now on the front office to lock the 31-year-old star down long-term.
Suzuki’s value is clear in both traditional and advanced metrics. In just four seasons, he has accumulated 11.1 bWAR (Wins Above Replacement) and is on the verge of his 100th home run as a Cub.
But his impact transcends the stat sheet. The Cubs’ strategic investment in the Japanese player market has paid massive dividends with Suzuki. His presence has significantly boosted the Cubs’ global fanbase, particularly in his native Japan, where he remains a superstar.
Suzuki’s commitment to the team is clear. “I’ve always wanted to be part of the Cubs’ future, and I’m focused on helping this team win,” Suzuki said. “I’m just taking it one day at a time, but I love being here and I want to keep building something special with this team.”
His 2025 campaign highlighted his immense value. Suzuki had a red-hot first half, crushing 25 home runs and driving in 77 RBIs, flashing signs of being one of the league’s top sluggers. While a second-half dip saw his numbers cool off, a strong playoff performance reaffirmed his status as a big-game player.
His defense has been inconsistent since he was moved from his natural position in right field to accommodate the acquisition of Kyle Tucker, but his bat has more than compensated for any defensive shortcomings.
The Cubs’ leadership seems to agree. Manager Craig Counsell offered a ringing endorsement for his outfielder.
“I think Seiya has proven his value to the Cubs,” Counsell stated. “He’s a leader in the clubhouse and an elite hitter. Keeping him here should be a no-brainer.”
With Suzuki turning 31, fans are rallying behind a rumored potential offer: a 3-year, $57 million extension, with a fourth-year option. Such a deal would secure Suzuki through the remainder of his prime.
As the Cubs head into a critical offseason, fans are “desperate” for the team to make Suzuki’s extension a top priority. He is not just a great player; he is the face of a global Cubs resurgence.
“I want to be a part of something special here,” Suzuki reiterated—a sentiment the entire city of Chicago hopes the front office shares.
