Wed Dec 11 17:30:00 UTC 2024: **Cubs Weigh Trade Options for Outfielders Bellinger and Suzuki**

Chicago, IL – The Chicago Cubs are facing a decision on their outfield, with both Cody Bellinger and Seiya Suzuki emerging as potential trade candidates. While Bellinger has been the primary focus of trade speculation, Suzuki’s agent, Joel Wolfe, revealed that the Cubs have contacted him about potential suitors for his client.

Suzuki possesses a full no-trade clause, giving him significant control over any potential move. Wolfe indicated that while Suzuki is open to a trade, his options are limited, as he desires regular playing time in the outfield. The emergence of Pete Crow-Armstrong as the everyday center fielder has relegated Suzuki primarily to designated hitter (DH) duty, a role he reportedly dislikes. Wolfe stated Suzuki would likely not have signed with a team intending to use him exclusively as a DH.

Cubs president of baseball operations Jed Hoyer initiated contact with Wolfe to gauge interest in Suzuki. While Suzuki’s offensive production (.283/.366/.482, 138 wRC+ in 2024) significantly surpasses Bellinger’s, his defensive metrics are less impressive, with a -3 Outs Above Average last season. Conversely, Bellinger, though not qualifying for defensive metrics, is considered a superior fielder in the outfield corners. The Cubs’ best defensive alignment currently has Bellinger in right field and Suzuki at DH.

Despite speculation, Cubs general manager Carter Hawkins downplayed the likelihood of a Suzuki trade, stating that while they are willing to listen to offers for both players, a deal is only likely if a Bellinger trade falls through. Bellinger, with a $27.5 million salary in 2025, is reportedly attracting interest from several teams, making a trade for him more probable at present. The significant difference in salary between the two players, as well as Bellinger’s impending player option for 2026, further complicates the situation.

Numerous fan opinions and predictions abound regarding possible trade scenarios, with many believing Bellinger is more likely to be traded than Suzuki. These vary from minor league prospects being exchanged, the Cubs absorbing some of Bellinger’s salary, and some suggesting the Cubs are unlikely to receive a significant return for Bellinger given his high salary and contract uncertainty. The overall consensus among fans is mixed regarding the best course of action.

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