Seiya Suzuki’s return to the Chicago Cubs lineup is coming into clearer focus as he begins a rehabilitation assignment. Suzuki sustained a right PCL sprain during a stolen-base attempt while playing for Japan in the World Baseball Classic quarterfinal against Venezuela.

Injury Impact and Initial Recovery

The injury has created a need for a solution in right field for the Cubs, with Matt Shaw’s performance described as adequate. Cubs manager Craig Counsell initially indicated a potential minor league assignment was approaching on Monday.

Rehab Assignment Details

Two days later, Suzuki is ready to take the next step in his recovery. The 31-year-old outfielder will join the Cubs’ Double-A affiliate, the Knoxville Smokies, for their season opener on Friday.

Timeline for Return

Craig Counsell stated, “We’re looking at probably three to seven days, somewhere in that range, just seeing how he feels when he’s playing and going from there.”

Progress and Testing

Suzuki took batting practice on Monday before the Cubs’ game against the Angels. He followed that up on Tuesday with baserunning and defensive drills, including sliding practice.

Addressing Concerns

Counsell explained the team focused on simulating the conditions of the injury, saying, “We really tried to put him through one last test, really…maybe the toughest step, just in terms of that’s probably similar to how the injury happened. So to put some impact on the knee again is probably one of the last steps we’re going to have to take here.”

Smokies Schedule and Potential Return Dates

The Smokies will face the Birmingham Barons, the Double-A affiliate of the White Sox. The Cubs intend for Suzuki to play right field during his assignment to ensure he’s fully recovered and not limited to being a designated hitter.

Based on this timeline, Suzuki could return as early as April 6 against the Tampa Bay Rays. However, the Rays play on an artificial turf field at Tropicana Field, and the Cubs may choose to delay his return to avoid playing him in right field on turf.

If the team exercises caution, Suzuki is likely to return on April 10 when the Cubs host the Pittsburgh Pirates, following an off-day between series.