REPORT: Chicago Cubs don’t want to get into bidding war for free agent outfielder

After a wild 162 game season that saw its ups and downs for the Chicago Cubs, the team had a quick exit in the MLB playoffs. They were eliminated in two games, losing both to the San Diego Padres.

Just as fast as the playoffs began, they were over for Craig Counsell’s team. Now, they enter an offseason with a lot of questions and that’s not even mentioning a likely lockout.

Jed Hoyer and Carter Hawkins have some decisions to make with the roster. It’s clear that the bullpen needs help in terms of additions and now they will have to look at some bats to add to the lineup, pending some decisions. One of those decisions is right fielder Seiya Suzuki.

Chicago Cubs don’t want a bidding war for Seiya Suzuki

Aug 14, 2026; Chicago, Illinois, USA; Chicago Cubs designated hitter Seiya Suzuki (27) rounds the bases after hitting a three-run home run against the St. Louis Cardinals during the sixth inning at Wrigley Field. Mandatory Credit: Kamil Krzaczynski-Imagn Images

It’s likely the Cubs are going to have to find at least one new corner outfielder for next offseason and potentially two. Suzuki is set to be a free agent this season after spending the past five seasons with the Cubs. The 32-year-old came over from Japan and has been a staple in right field since.

But the latest on Suzuki isn’t good news for those who want him back.

Patrick Mooney wrote in The Athletic on the Cubs’ offseason following the Game 2 loss. In the column, he mentions how the Cubs don’t want to get into a bidding war nor win one.

Suzuki, who was 19th in the league in fWAR, put up some of the best overall numbers of his career, which will probably make him a hot commodity. Considering their pitching deficit, it’s unlikely that the Cubs will get into a bidding war for Suzuki’s services, let alone win one.

Happ is more than likely to return of the two simply because he could take a team-friendly deal. He’s expressed how much he loves Chicago and was emotional in the home finale.

Suzuki loves Chicago as well but he’s in line for a nice pay day. There are several teams who could use a right fielder in free agency and he should get a nice pay day.

The right fielder put together the best stretch of his career so far hitting 32 home runs and driving in 103 runs in 2025. He followed that up this season hitting .270 with 26 home runs and 86 RBI’s. It’s certainly going to be an interesting offseason in more than one way for the Cubs.

The post REPORT: Chicago Cubs don’t want to get into bidding war for free agent outfielder appeared first on ChiCitySports.