Suzuki, Hughes To Begin Rehab Assignments At Triple-A

The Chicago Cubs could be getting a couple of key players back very soon.

Right fielder Seiya Suzuki (left oblique strain) and left-hander Brandon Hughes (left knee) are scheduled to play for Triple-A Iowa on Saturday.

Both Suzuki and Hughes were placed on the injured list on Opening Day. Both players will be re-evaluated after this weekend series at St. Paul.

Suzuki participated in a simulated game on Wednesday and appeared to come out of it in a positive way.

“I just talked earlier this morning with somebody that saw his at-bats in person, it looks like he could be ready soon,” manager David Ross said of Suzuki.

The 28-year-old Suzuki is entering the second season under a five-year, $85 million contract. In 111 games in 2022, he slashed .262/.336/.433 with 14 home runs and 22 doubles.

The Cubs will be able to manage for a short stretch, but they’ll ultimately need their ultra-talented right fielder to make a run at the postseason.

Hughes, meanwhile, struggled in spring training with inflammation in the knee.