Suzuki's Comeback: Home Runs & Rehab Stint

0:00On March 31st, Seiya Suzuki is turning heads with his comeback workouts for the Cubs. The outfielder crushed a bunch of home runs and batting practice at Riggly Field on Monday, looking sharp and ready to reclaim his spot in the lineup. He's been on the 10-day injured list with a right knee sprain, but his progress has everyone optimistic. Tuesday ramped things up even more, with defensive drills, base running, and sliding on a mat in the outfield. Manager Craig Council called it a final test, saying the team feels great about where Suzuki stands. They focused on his starts and stops during runs, to mimic game unpredictability. Cubs fans are buzzing because Suzuki was a beast last season, smashing 32 home runs, driving in 103 runs, and posting a 1.130 OPS Plus. That firepower, plus his playoff pop, makes him a huge piece for Chicago's offense right now. Next up, Suzuki heads to a minor league rehab stand during the Cubs road trip through Cleveland, this Friday to Sunday, then Tampa Bay from April. Sixth to eighth.

1:03The team is picking between AA Knoxville or AAA Iowa, based on weather, and the length is still flexible. Council wants Suzuki fully clear for right field. Not just designated hitter duty, so activation depends on how he feels out there. With the trop's turf and a home return on April 10th, they're playing it smart to get him back strong and swinging. That's your update from MLB News Today, powered by AI. I'm Corey with The Story.