Chicago Cubs: These 10 players must have success this season

Chicago Cubs: Happ could be the heir apparent to an aging Zobrist

The biggest hole in Ian Happ‘s game? His swing.

Often criticized for a long cut that has allowed opposing pitchers to strike him out at a staggering rate (he ranked fifth in the league in punchouts last season), Happ brings tremendous versatility to the Cubs – making him a natural fit to the mix-and-match managerial style of Joe Maddon.

In 2018, Happ saw action at every defensive position outside of shortstop and catcher, even pitching in a blowout loss. But more often than not, he slotted into the Chicago outfield – something that could change this season, especially if Addison Russell doesn’t factor into the team’s plans.

As much as he strikes out, the former first-rounder has proven himself to be particularly adept at getting on base (he posted a .353 OBP last year) – although it remains to be seen if he can rediscover the pop he showed in his rookie season back in 2017.

He wasn’t alone in trending backward in the power department under former hitting coach Chili Davis – who emphasized situational hitting more and launch angle less. But for Happ to factor into the team’s long-term plans, he’ll have to show he can hit for more power – while cutting down his strikeouts in a dramatic way.

Otherwise, he may very well prove to be a valuable trade chip given his relative age and the upside that’s pretty evident in his game after just a year-and-a-half in the big leagues.