After Dark at BCB: What can the Cubs anticipate from Seiya Suzuki in 2025?

As the Chicago Cubs look ahead to the 2025 season, one of the most intriguing questions revolves around Seiya Suzuki. The Japanese slugger, who joined the Cubs in 2022 on a five-year deal, has shown flashes of brilliance but has also faced his share of challenges. Heading into 2025, Cubs fans and the organization alike are eager to see if Suzuki can become the consistent offensive force they envisioned when he was signed.

Suzuki’s 2024 campaign provided reasons for both optimism and tempered expectations. After a slow start in previous seasons, Suzuki displayed marked improvements in his plate discipline, power numbers, and defensive consistency in 2024. He finished the season with a .285 batting average, 25 home runs, and an impressive .870 OPS, suggesting he’s finding his rhythm in Major League Baseball.

However, questions linger about his ability to sustain those numbers across a full season. Injuries and occasional slumps have been part of his story in Chicago, and the Cubs will need Suzuki to maintain his health and productivity as they aim to contend in 2025.

Suzuki’s bat is his primary asset, and the Cubs will be counting on him to deliver in the middle of the lineup. His ability to adjust to pitchers who exploit his weaknesses will be critical. If he continues to refine his approach and capitalize on his power, a 30-home-run season isn’t out of the question.

While Suzuki is primarily valued for his offense, his defensive skills have quietly improved. With a strong arm and solid instincts in right field, he has become a reliable presence in the Cubs’ outfield. Sustaining that defensive performance will only enhance his value to the team.

As Suzuki enters his fourth year in the MLB, his experience and familiarity with the league should translate into greater confidence and leadership on and off the field. His ability to connect with teammates and embrace a leading role could make a significant impact in the clubhouse.

If Suzuki stays healthy, a .280/.350/.500 slash line with 25–30 home runs and around 90 RBIs seems realistic. His WAR could push into the 4.0–5.0 range, placing him among the league’s more valuable right fielders.

With a strong supporting cast around him, Suzuki’s production will be critical in determining how far the Cubs can go in 2025. The team’s blend of emerging stars, veteran leaders, and a bolstered pitching staff makes them a legitimate contender, and Suzuki could very well be the X-factor that pushes them over the top.

The Cubs should expect a more polished and confident Seiya Suzuki in 2025. His growth in previous seasons suggests that he is primed to deliver consistent, impactful performances as a cornerstone of the team’s offense. While there are no guarantees in baseball, Suzuki’s upward trajectory offers plenty of reasons for optimism in the North Side faithful.

As the lights shine bright on Wrigley Field next season, all eyes will be on Suzuki to see if he can rise to the occasion and help lead the Cubs back to postseason glory.