Seiya Suzuki reveals WBC 2026 move while Chicago Cubs start shaping a serious World Series run with Alex Bregman

Seiya Suzuki, right fielder for the Chicago Cubs, has said clearly that he will play for Team Japan in the 2026 World Baseball Classic set for March 5–17 in multiple cities around the world.

Suzuki missed the last WBC in 2023 because of a left oblique injury, and now he says he is ready to represent his home country and give his best for the team. At the same time, the Cubs are preparing for the 2026 Major League Baseball season with a big new signing. Alexander David Bregman, known as Alex Bregman, agreed to a five-year contract with the Chicago Cubs as they try to build a team that can compete for the World Series.

Seiya Suzuki’s WBC 2026 plans and what it means for Team Japan and Cubs fans

Seiya Suzuki said in January that he will play for Samurai Japan in the World Baseball Classic in March 2026. He said, “I regret not being able to play last time, so I’m going to get in shape so I can play this year. I’m also honored to represent Japan with everyone on the team. I’ll do my best for the team and for Japan.” Last season in 2025, Suzuki hit 32 home runs and drove in 103 runs while batting .245 for the Cubs in 151 games.

He also hit a 30th grand slam home run against the St. Louis Cardinals last September, one of his best moments of the year. His decision to play for Japan comes as the Classic draws closer and many Cubs players are set to take part. Suzuki will join stars like Shohei Ohtani and Yoshinobu Yamamoto of the Los Angeles Dodgers on Japan’s roster, making the team strong at the plate and in the field.

Alex Bregman, a veteran third baseman and two-time World Series champion, signed with the Chicago Cubs on January 14, 2026, with a five-year, $175 million contract.

He will wear jersey No. 3 and bring experience and leadership to Chicago’s lineup. Bregman has won two World Series titles, in 2017 and 2022, with the Houston Astros. He is known for his ability to hit in big moments and for being a team leader. This move makes the Cubs’ offense stronger. Suzuki and Bregman both hit the ball hard, and together they can help the Cubs score runs in many ways. Suzuki’s power in right field and Bregman’s hitting from third base could make the Cubs’ lineup dangerous for pitchers all season. Suzuki’s focus on international play and Bregman’s World Series goals mean the Cubs will be a story to watch in 2026. Their combined talent could make Chicago a team that stays in the playoff race all year long.