Chicago Cubs: Breaking down potential Ian Happ destinations

 Miami Marlins

This one is a bit of a long shot, but should still be mentioned, because Theo and Co have pulled off some long shot trades. (See: Jose Quintana and Addison Russell.) The Cubs may be looking to upgrade in the outfield, while the Marlins are looking to do a salary dump. Christian Yelich is the ideal Cubs target.

The reason this is a long shot is that Yelich is one of the cheaper Marlins, who may stay around, but if the Marlins get an offer they like, then we will see. Yelich has been a 4.5 WAR player the past two seasons, all while having inflated power numbers and playing sparkling defense. Not only is Yelich still young, but he is also signed through 2021+ and option year, with an AAV of $7 million per year. Teams would be foolish not to ask about his availability.

Dee Gordon is another name that has popped up, but he doesn’t make a whole lot of sense for the Cubs. Javier Baez and Ben Zobrist can play second base, along with Addison Russell. There is no spot for Dee, but he would fill the leadoff void. Plus, Gordon will be 30 during the 2018 season, coming on the back end of his career now. If the Marlins decide to trade either of these guys, Ian Happ makes the most sense as a starting point in negotiations, should the Cubs come calling.