Ian Happ's struggles complicate Chicago Cubs' outfield picture

When Chicago Cubs left fielder Ian Happ signed a three-year contract extension with the team ahead of the 2023 season, it was a sign that Happ had finally put the offensive inconsistencies behind him and was ready to be a core member of the next contention window for the Cubs. Happ was coming off an All-Star campaign during the 2022 season where he also earned his first-career Gold Glove award for his play in left field. Despite offensive struggles during the first half of the 2023 season, Happ managed to turn his season around with a stellar second half to the season. Happ finished 2023 with a 118 wRC+, 21 home runs, and 99 walks.