🚨 CUBS FACING TOUGH DECISION: WILL THEY LOSE A 32-HOME RUN SLUGGER IN FREE AGENCY? 👇

Chicago, IL – The Chicago Cubs are entering a pivotal offseason, and the team faces a major dilemma regarding their starting outfielders. As the season progresses, the Cubs could potentially lose one of their most powerful hitters to free agency, with the future of both Ian Happ and Seiya Suzuki hanging in the balance.

The Cubs’ Outfield Dilemma

Both Happ and Suzuki will hit free agency at the end of this season, and while the Cubs have the financial means to re-sign one of them, it seems unlikely that they’ll be able to keep both. The Cubs’ outfield has been one of the bright spots for the team in recent years, but with the arrival of rising star Pete Crow-Armstrong and his potential for a long-term extension, the Cubs are expected to face some difficult decisions.

Pete Crow-Armstrong’s potential extension at a high average annual value could play a significant role in the Cubs’ decision-making process, especially given the team’s limited cap flexibility. If the Cubs lock up Crow-Armstrong, who could be the centerpiece of the future, the team will likely prioritize re-signing one of the veterans—either Happ or Suzuki—but not both.

Ian Happ vs. Seiya Suzuki: Who Stays and Who Goes?

According to FanSided’s Zachary Rotman, the Cubs are likely to prioritize Happ over Suzuki. Happ, who has been with the team since making his Major League debut in 2017, is the longest-tenured player on the Cubs roster. A four-time Gold Glove Award winner in left field, Happ is a well-rounded player who provides both offensive and defensive value.

In contrast, Suzuki, who made waves in 2025 by hitting 32 home runs, has proven to be a prolific slugger, outperforming Happ in SLG% and OPS. However, Suzuki is primarily limited to designated hitter duties, a role that may become more pronounced as he approaches his mid-thirties. While Suzuki’s power numbers are enticing, Happ’s versatility as a switch-hitter and superior defense in the outfield makes him the more valuable long-term asset for the Cubs.

Rotman argues that, while Suzuki may be the more dynamic offensive player, Happ’s overall value—particularly his defense and ability to play in multiple spots—makes him the more logical option for the Cubs moving forward. This is especially true if Crow-Armstrong’s extension puts further financial strain on the team’s ability to keep both players.

The Cubs’ Future with Pete Crow-Armstrong

As the Cubs continue to navigate this offseason, the emergence of Pete Crow-Armstrong is sure to play a significant role in their decision-making. Crow-Armstrong has been one of the top prospects in baseball, and his eventual promotion to the big leagues and subsequent extension could give the Cubs the flexibility to move on from one of their veteran outfielders.

For now, Cubs fans are left to wonder: Will the team be able to keep both Ian Happ and Seiya Suzuki, or will the financial reality of a Crow-Armstrong extension push one of them out the door?