Cody Bellinger Could Create Small Wrinkle in Cubs’ OF Mix as Seiya Suzuki Prepares to Return

We touched earlier on Seiya Suzuki’s return and how that could impact the roster, namely who would be leaving Chicago to make room, but the Cubs may be able to stave off any personnel moves for a few days. We all know how much they love to find ways to kick the can down the road, though it’s usually with a very coincidental IL stint. That’s sort of what might be happening here even if the solution doesn’t last as long.

Tony Andracki noted in a piece for Marquee that Cody Bellinger’s girlfriend is due with their second child very soon, so the center fielder will likely take paternity leave for a few games. That puts the Nelson Velázquez promotion in better context, as @ballskwok tweeted, after it initially seemed odd to call him up with Suzuki’s activation around the corner.

This sheds more light on the timing of the Velazquez call up. https://t.co/VqUlE6faTa pic.twitter.com/gl8ioUGAZ6

— Brad (@ballskwok) April 13, 2023

It’s possible this will all be sorted out well ahead of Friday’s game in LA because the 9:10pm CT start time gives the Cubs plenty of time for any procedural moves. Guess those late games are good for something after all.