Cubs Expected to Tender Qualifying Offer to Seiya Suzuki

The Chicago Cubs are anticipated to extend a qualifying offer to outfielder Seiya Suzuki as the MLB free agency period nears, according to MLB insider Jon Heyman.

This one-year offer is valued at $23.15 million, setting a record for the qualifying offer system established in 2012. Suzuki, who is 32 years old, is expected to decline this offer in favor of exploring multiyear contracts after completing a five-year, $85 million deal he signed upon arriving from Japan.

In the 2026 season, Suzuki achieved a .270 batting average, a .368 on-base percentage, and a .473 slugging percentage, hitting 26 home runs and driving in 86 runs over 143 games. His performance resulted in a career-high 5.1 wins above replacement, highlighting his value as a strong hitter. The Cubs are also considering younger players for expanded roles, as they face additional outfield challenges with Ian Happ eligible for free agency. If Suzuki declines the offer, the Cubs would receive a compensatory draft pick, but only after the fourth round, due to their status as a tax-paying club.