Chicago Cubs’ Seiya Suzuki Looks to Keep Offensive Stretch Going
Despite losing two of their last three series, the Chicago Cubs have seen strong offensive numbers from various sources in the month of August.
Of late, the most important one is Seiya Suzuki.
As the Cubs look to close out August with their first winning month of baseball this season, the right fielder/designated hitter has been at the forefront of the team's success across the last three series of baseball.
Chicago Cubs' Seiya Suzuki at Wrigley Field earlier this year.
© Kamil Krzaczynski-USA TODAY Sports
Despite a solid July at the plate for Suzuki, his late-August figures lead the team in various categories and display the consistency that Chicago will look for as he remains a vital part of the lineup beyond his rookie season.
Over the last three series (11 games), Suzuki has a team-leading 12 hits, .343 batting average, and a .426 wOBA.
Suzuki's two three-hit games this month are the most in any one-month span in his young career.
Displaying more confidence at the plate and a better understanding of the zone, he's walked seven times for an OBP of .452 and a .995 OPS.
Over the last 11 games, Suzuki is tied for first amongst all National League right fielders in outside-the-strike zone contact (84.6%) and second in inside-the-zone contact (88.2%). He is also tied for second in doubles with four.
For Suzuki, who missed just over a month of baseball from May to July with a finger sprain, his recent stretch at the plate must be encouraging for the Chicago organization.
While his overall numbers on the season are middling for a 27-year-old rookie year (.252/.331/.419), the now 28-year-old's recent performance lends even more optimism to his future.
Chicago Cubs' Seiya Suzuki this past weekend against the Milwaukee Brewers.
© Michael McLoone-USA TODAY Sports
His most recent stretch at the plate places him statistically within the likes of Ian Happ, Nico Hoerner, and Nick Madrigal, confirming that he is an important part of the Cubs offense.
As the Cubs head to Toronto for a three-game series beginning on Monday night, Suzuki will look to keep up his offensive production as they look to finish August strong.
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