Cubs' Seiya Suzuki Makes MLB History After All-Star Game Snub

Designated hitter Seiya Suzuki is in his fourth major-league season with the Chicago Cubs after nine standout years in Japan’s Nippon Professional Baseball.

The Cubs signed Suzuki to a five-year, $85 million contract in 2022, and he’ll become an unrestricted free agent after the 2026 season.

Suzuki transitioned to the designated hitter role late last season, both because he immediately produced in that role and because Chicago’s outfield was crowded with Cody Bellinger, Pete Crow-Armstrong and Ian Happ.

In 2025, his first full season as a DH, Suzuki has dominated—batting .263 with 25 home runs and an .880 OPS over 86 games.

Chicago Cubs designated hitter Seiya Suzuki (27)

© Kamil Krzaczynski-Imagn Images

Despite that terrific first half, Suzuki was not selected to represent the National League at this year’s All-Star Game.

Entering the break with at least 25 home runs, 75 RBIs and 20 doubles is rare: in MLB history only 34 players have reached those marks by midseason, and just two have been left off the roster—Hank Greenberg in 1935 and Suzuki in 2025.

Suzuki enters Tuesday’s game against the Minnesota Twins with 77 RBIs—the most in all of MLB—leading Aaron Judge and Cal Raleigh, who are both tied at 74.

Although he won’t participate in the Midsummer Classic, Suzuki's focus remains on team success, and his bat has been an important piece so far.

The Cubs currently stand 54–36 in first place in the NL Central, holding a 3.5-game lead over the second-place Milwaukee Brewers. Suzuki's continued offensive production will be an important part of Chicago’s quest for a division title and a deep postseason run.