Time: 2024-07-20
The Chicago Cubs made headlines when they decided to dismiss Toy Matsushita , the Japanese interpreter for outfielder Seiya Suzuki . Matsushita had been with the organization since Suzuki 's arrival in 2022 . The decision was made prior to Friday 's game against the Arizona Diamondbacks . Cubs manager Craig Counsell explained that they felt confident in moving forward without Matsushita and have a strong support system in place for Suzuki with other staff members . This move was not aimed at improving Suzuki 's performance , as he is currently on pace for a career - low .334 on - base percentage.
The responsibility of communicating between Suzuki and the American media now falls on Cubs staffers Nao Masamoto and Edwin Stanberry , who will work with Suzuki in Matsushita 's place . This change comes after Matsushita 's dismissal and amidst a period of transition for the team . The Cubs also made roster moves on Friday , activating outfielder Mike Tauchman and selecting right - handed pitcher Jess Tinoco from Triple - A Iowa . Outfielder Alexander Canario was optioned to Iowa , and left - hander Jordan Wicks was moved to the 60 - day injured list.
The decision to dismiss Matsushita as Suzuki 's interpreter was described as an " organizational decision " by the team . Matsushita had been an integral part of Suzuki 's journey with the Cubs for the past two - and - a - half seasons . His responsibilities included bridging communication between Suzuki and various parties within the team , such as the front office , coaching staff , and media . The Cubs have emphasized that this move was not related to any scandal or impropriety , unlike a previous incident involving another Japanese player 's interpreter.
In a similar scandal earlier this season , Ippei Mizuhara , the interpreter for Shohei Ohtani , was involved in a gambling scandal that resulted in Mizuhara stealing millions from Ohtani . However , the Cubs made it clear that Matsushita 's dismissal was unrelated to any such scandal . Suzuki , who has been performing well this season with a .270 batting average and 13 home runs , will continue to have support from the Cubs organization as he navigates this change in his communication dynamics.
As the Chicago Cubs adjust to the changes in Suzuki 's support system , they are also focused on maintaining their momentum in the MLB season . With Suzuki 's strong performance at the plate and the team making strategic roster moves , they are determined to stay competitive in the league . The Cubs ' decision to part ways with Matsushita underscores the team 's commitment to providing the best resources for their players . As Suzuki continues to excel on the field , the Cubs will be closely monitoring his progress and supporting him in his endeavors . Stay tuned for more updates on the Chicago Cubs and Seiya Suzuki as they navigate the rest of the MLB season.
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