Chicago Cubs manager Craig Counsell said Tyler Austin will miss “months” after right knee surgery, reshaping the team's Opening Day outlook.

Chicago Cubs manager Craig Counsell had an unfortunate update to share on Wednesday.

Tyler Austin's return to the major leagues has been put on hold for what Chicago Cubs manager Craig Counsell says will be months following a procedure on his right knee. Counsell said Wednesday that Austin had a patellar tendon debridement procedure on his right knee Tuesday and will need a lengthy recovery period. Austin, 34, signed a one-year deal with Chicago after spending six seasons with Yokohama in Japan's Pacific League.

Austin spent the past six seasons in Japan.

Marquee Sports Network's Elise Menaker speaks with new Chicago Cubs first baseman Tyler Austin at the 2026 Cubs Convention about transitioning back to MLB after he played in Japan for six seasons. The post Cubs’ Tyler Austin explains transition back to MLB after lengthy Japan stay appeared first on Marquee Sports Network - Home of the Cubs, Bears, Red Stars and Sky.

Tyler Austin’s track record against left-handed pitching and success in Japan make him a perfect complement to Michael Busch.

Austin, 34, has spent the past half-decade-plus in Japan’s Nippon Professional Baseball.

The Chicago Cubs add veteran depth by signing former Yankees top prospect Tyler Austin to a one-year deal after a dominant run in Japan.