MLB Rumors: Red Sox buzz, Braves done with Marcell Ozuna, Cubs plans
By Mark Powell
Cubs rumors: What is next after Ian Happ?
The Cubs extended two pieces of their young core — Nico Hoerner and Ian Happ — at the start of the regular season. Happ’s decision was a relative surprise, but Chicago has a clear path forward now, and have rededicated themselves to winning. Times are good on the North Shore in Wrigleyville.
FanSided’s Robert Murray discussed what the Cubs commitment means for them moving forward:
"“Happ wanted to stay in Chicago. And the Cubs didn’t want to risk losing Happ in free agency. So the two sides kept in contact and ultimately agreed to a three-year, $61 million contract extension, sources told FanSided. The deal is on top of his $10.85 million salary for the 2023 season. The $20.33 million average annual value is higher than some industry people expected, but it makes sense for the Cubs. The 2023-2024 free-agent hitting market is the worst it has been in years and Happ would have been among the top options available. As a switch hitter and strong defender, it’s entirely possible that another team could have signed him to a long-term contract in excess of $100 million.”"
Happ didn’t want to go anywhere, and the Cubs rewarded him for that. He worked on his craft despite a suboptimal 2018 season. He’s improved, and earned his keep.
From here, Chicago needs to continue investing in its team via the free-agent market. They have the making of a solid team in an otherwise winnable NL Central, but there are still a few areas of weakness.
If anything, the Cubs signed Happ because the 2023-24 free-agent crop is a weak one, especially in the outfield. Happ was one of the best available, and now he’s off the market.