Cubs fortify new core with Ian Happ extension. Can he lead their next great team?

Chicago Cubs outfielder Ian Happ has signed a three-year extension with the club worth $61m guaranteed. The deal will keep him at the club through the 2026 season. Happ made his MLB debut after his teammates had won the iconic 2016 World Series, and has since become a veteran and the second-longest tenured Cub on the roster. He nearly left the club before the 2022 trade deadline, but instead opted to extend his stay while he remained in line to be one of the highest-profile hitters in the upcoming free-agent class.

Though Happ could have tested the open market this winter as one of the best position players available, he opted to remain with the Cubs, stating that he has enjoyed playing for the historic franchise. Playing at Wrigley Field is a privilege, he said, leading to his deep appreciation for the club. Happ’s commitment to the club is also about winning, as the Cubs have not reached the postseason since 2018. However, with Happ and other up-and-coming prospects, the Cubs are aiming to make the playoffs again.

The Cubs won 97 games after finishing last in 2014 and reached the 2015 National League Championship Series. Despite finishing the 2022 season with just 74 wins, Happ believes, with the help of offseason veteran addition Dansby Swanson, that the Cubs have the potential to make a similar jump back into the playoffs soon. Happ led the Cubs in several offensive categories last season.

Happ is seen as an important figure among the club’s prospects, including outfielder Brennen Davis, whom Happ said reminded him of himself when he was just starting out in the majors. Davis spent most of the 2022 season at Double-A, where he hit .308 with 18 homers and 68 RBI. With Happ’s decision to remain with the organization, he will now have a crucial impact on whether the next great Cubs team comes to fruition.



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