MESA, Ariz. -- Cubs right fielder Seiya Suzuki will begin this season on the injured list, manager Craig Counsell announced on Monday morning.
The Cubs do not expect Suzuki's right knee injury (sprained posterior cruciate ligament) to be a long-term setback, but it was already determined that he would not be ready in time for Opening Day against the Nationals (Thursday, 1:20 p.m. CT).
Suzuki injured his knee on a stolen base attempt for Team Japan in a World Baseball Classic quarterfinal loss to Venezuela on March 14. The outfielder has been ramping up his activity over the past week, adding some light running on Monday, but he still has several boxes to check before being deemed ready to rejoin the Cubs.
The North Siders informed veteran outfielder Michael Conforto, a non-roster invitee, over the weekend that he would be on the Opening Day roster. Super-utility man Matt Shaw is also an option for right field while Suzuki is sidelined. Chicago is still discussing how to fill out the two remaining bench spots.
Counsell also noted that right-hander Ben Brown was told he will be in the Opening Day bullpen, completing Chicago's planned pitching staff. Righty Javier Assad will be optioned to Triple-A Iowa, where he will continue to build up as a starter.