Dodgers Eye Seiya Suzuki as $75 Million Target Amid Free-Agent Challenges
As negotiations stall with free-agent outfielder Teoscar Hernández, the reigning World Series champion Los Angeles Dodgers are turning their attention to other right-handed hitting options, including Chicago Cubs outfielder Seiya Suzuki.
Suzuki, 30, is coming off a strong 2024 campaign, where he posted a .283/.366/.482 slash line with 21 home runs, 73 RBIs, and an .848 OPS. He is under contract for $36 million over the next two seasons and holds a full no-trade clause.
However, according to Ken Rosenthal of The Athletic, the Cubs are considering trading Suzuki due to roster adjustments following their acquisition of Kyle Tucker.
“With Tucker set in right, Pete Crow-Armstrong in center, and Ian Happ in left, Suzuki might be relegated to DH duty,” Rosenthal reported. “While he performed slightly better as a DH than as an outfielder last season, Suzuki may not be open to a full-time DH role, potentially making him more willing to approve a trade.”
Cubs Weigh Suzuki’s Future
The Cubs have been transparent about Suzuki’s potential availability. During the Winter Meetings, President of Baseball Operations Jed Hoyer discussed interest from other teams with Suzuki and his representatives.
“Jed has been very upfront,” said Suzuki’s agent, Joel Wolfe. “He’s shared which teams have shown interest. While trading Seiya isn’t his priority, there could be an offer compelling enough for him to consider. We’ve discussed teams Seiya might approve.”
Wolfe noted that Suzuki’s defensive abilities, highly valued during his time in Japan, make the idea of a full-time DH role less appealing.
The Cubs, while open to discussions, emphasize their reluctance to part with Suzuki.
“The bar to trade a great player like Seiya is incredibly high,” said Cubs General Manager Carter Hawkins. “We value him immensely, but interest from other teams is natural. We’re open to conversations but not actively seeking to move him.”
Dodgers’ Offseason Strategy
As the Dodgers await Hernández’s decision, Suzuki has emerged as a potential solution to their outfield needs. Should Hernández decline their offer, Suzuki could fit seamlessly into their lineup, providing strong offensive production and defensive versatility.
With the offseason moving slower than anticipated, the Dodgers are positioning themselves to act decisively once Hernández makes his choice. Adding Suzuki would require a substantial offer, but his combination of skill, contract value, and potential impact makes him an appealing target for the defending champions.
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