SAN FRANCISCO — The Chicago Cubs opted to rest outfielder Seiya Suzuki on Sunday due to lingering right knee discomfort, sidelining him for the team’s 5-1 loss to the San Francisco Giants.

Suzuki was originally included in the lineup as the designated hitter but was removed prior to the game after working out earlier in the day. Manager Craig Counsell described the decision as a precautionary measure to allow Suzuki additional time to recover. “He feels good. We’re just going to give him another day just to be safe,” Counsell said, noting that Suzuki ran but the team preferred to be conservative. “This is going to be day to day,” he added.

The right fielder exited Saturday night’s game against the Giants after sustaining the knee discomfort while attempting a catch. Despite an outstanding defensive showing—including a strong throw and a sliding catch—Suzuki stumbled on one play that allowed a hit and forced him out of the game. Prior to Sunday, he had been on a 10-game hitting streak, hitting three home runs, driving in nine runs, and scoring six times during that span.

Suzuki started the 2026 season on the injured list with an issue to the same knee, which was injured while playing for Japan in the World Baseball Classic. He did not make his season debut until the 13th game of the year. Despite a lower overall offensive output this season, with a .772 OPS marking his lowest since his rookie campaign, his recent form showed improvement before the knee symptoms re-emerged.

Meanwhile, infielder Pedro Ramirez marked a significant milestone on Saturday night by hitting his first major league home run. The No. 2 prospect in the Cubs’ organization launched a ball to center field during Chicago’s victory over the Giants.

The 22-year-old, reflecting after the game through an interpreter, said his first thought running the bases was about his mother. “I hope she’s watching me,” he said, adding that she was indeed watching and jubilant about the moment. Ramirez shared that his mother encouraged him to continue working hard and pursuing success.

Ramirez, who has seen limited playing time amid a veteran-stacked Cubs infield, has made the most of his opportunities. He has recorded seven hits—including three for extra bases—and three walks in 31 plate appearances. Counsell praised his composure and intelligence on the field, saying, “Pedro is a skilled player. He plays with a slow heartbeat, just calm. He’s got a high baseball IQ. I’ve been pleased.”

In addition to his first homer, Ramirez plans to gift his mother both the baseballs from his first major league hit and his first home run, adding a personal touch to his professional breakthrough.