Seiya Suzuki's Stats, Metrics, Game Logs, Projections & Rankings

The Houston Astros are targeting Chicago Cubs outfielder Seiya Suzuki and infielder Isaac Paredes in a possible trade for outfielder Kyle Tucker, according to sources briefed on the team's talks. The two teams have exchanged a variety of names in discussions, and any package for Tucker would also likely included prospects. Houston is also interested in third baseman Cam Smith, who was a first-rounder earlier this year. A source says the Cubs are highly unlikely to trade Suzuki and would prefer to unload Cody Bellinger's contract this offseason in a separate trade. Tucker is eligible for free agency after the 2025 season, so the Astros could be wanting to get something in return if they feel they won't be able to re-sign him. After Juan Soto's huge deal, Tucker, one of the best hitters in baseball, could command a deal of at least $400 to $500 million. The Yankees are another team pursuing a trade for Tucker.

According to Joel Sherman of the New York Post, the Chicago Cubs are "determined" to trade either outfielders Cody Bellinger or Seiya Suzuki. While Bellinger's name has been on the trade block earlier this offseason, Suzuki's name has yet to enter the conversation. Suzuki has spent each of his first three MLB seasons with the Cubs and has posted an overall .278/.354/.470 line. Last season, he hit a career-high 21 home runs and swiped a career-high 16 bags. Under the hood, he generated a stellar 49.2% hard-hit and 11.5% barrel rates. Given Chicago's surplus of young outfielders such as Pete Crow-Armstrong, Owen Caissie, Kevin Alcantara, and even top-hitting prospect infielder Matt Shaw, the Cubs may opt to ship one of these MLB bats to improve another position on their roster, which will open a spot for one of their budding prospects.

Chicago Cubs outfielder Seiya Suzuki (ankle) is returning to the starting nine on Saturday afternoon as the Cubs continue a three-game set with the division-rival Cincinnati Reds. Suzuki was kept sidelined over the past two games due to a minor ankle injury but will be back in action on Saturday. Since the start of the month, the 30-year-old has been swinging a hot bat with a .316/.438/.468 slash line with two home runs and six doubles. Suzuki has enjoyed another strong campaign in his third major-league season with a solid .281/.361/.482 line, 21 long balls, and 16 stolen bases. Suzuki will likely be drafted within the top 20 at his position due to his ability to contribute to all five standard categories.