MLB rumors: Cubs have obvious trade partner for Ian Happ

The Chicago Cubs have some players that they could trade and Ian Happ could get them the most in return. And they have an obvious trade partner: The Toronto Blue Jays

Despite the lyrics of “Go Cubs Go!”, the Chicago Cubs do not have the power or speed to be the best in the National League and it’s not the year for them. The Cubs are on pace for a 64-98 season, meaning that they should be sellers at the trade deadline.

The Toronto Blue Jays are in the exact opposite situation as they are on pace for a 84-78 season and they are tied for the final American League Wild Card spot entering play on Monday. They could use some more offense and Ian Happ could be a a great fit for them.

Toronto Blue Jays are a perfect fit for Ian Happ

The Toronto Blue Jays have a good hitting outfield with Lourdes Gurriel Jr., George Springer, and Teoscar Hernández but the team has yet to have a consistent player in the DH role. Chicago Cubs outfielder Ian Happ could help them in the outfield and/or with the DH spot.

In fact, American League All-Star starting catcher Alejandro Kirk has been the DH most for the Blue Jays. He and fellow catcher Zack Collins have DH’d for about 40 percent of the team’s games. Otherwise, it has largely been used as a half day off for Vladimir Guerrero Jr. or George Springer but, in total, 13 players have been the club’s DH.

Ian Happ has been an above average defender for the Cubs in left and center field this year and he has also been a great offensively. In 84 games this year, Happ is hitting .276/.370/.448 with eight home runs, 40 RBI, and 23 doubles, the latter of which is fifth in the NL.

Happ isn’t a free agent until next offseason, meaning that the Blue Jays would also be set for next year as well.

With more control, the Cubs could get a good return for him and the Blue Jays have the prospects. They have four prospects in MLB.com’s Top 100 list and some other prospects that are also very highly touted.

Having an outfield and designated hitter combination of Lourdes Gurriel Jr. George Springer, Teoscar Hernández, and Ian Happ could be enough to put the Blue Jays over the top for a playoff spot, as all of them have an OPS+ of 112 or better.