Ian Happ delivers emotional Cubs message that sounds like farewell despite signs of return

Ian Happ continues to sound like someone who realizes that his future in baseball may not be with the Chicago Cubs. Marking potentially his final home game at Wrigley Field, Happ had a symbolic gesture that suggested he was aware that the end to his Cubs' tenure may be near. After the Cubs were swept by the San Diego Padres in the Wild Card round last week, Happ once again echoed sentiments that felt like a farewell.

"All I can say is that I love being a Cub. I've loved my time. I've loved the place, the people, Wrigley Field, the fanbase. And it's been truly special. I don't think there's a better place in baseball to play."

These comments can be somewhat procedural. The reality is Happ is set to hit free agency this offseason, and once that happens, anything can happen. Along those lines, Happ has been in the Cubs organization since being drafted by the team in 2015, so it makes sense that he would want to send one final message before a potential goodbye.

Ian Happ's emotional Cubs message feels like goodbye but his future may tell different story

That may not be what actually happens this season. FanSided's Pat Ragazzo has previously reported that Happ would be open to a discount in free agency to remain with the Cubs. For all the warts that developed in Happ's offensive approach this past offseason, there's the reality that he's still four-time Gold Glove winner in left field, and hit 24 home runs for the Cubs. He's not perfect, but he remains an above-average offensive player.

Yes, part of me hates to be saying this out loud. Happ is a deeply frustrating player, because while he's often been consistent throughout his run with the Cubs, he's also been plagued with crippling cold stretches. Something that feels relevant, given how the Cubs ended their season looking lost offensively.

But, there appears to be a sense of awareness from the Cubs. The Athletic's Patrick Mooney mentioned the Cubs could be interested in a reunion with Happ, assuming it's on a team-friendly deal, but they are aware that moving forward, he could be best served as a platoon player.

Between Ragazzo's reporting and the latest intel from Mooney, it's starting to feel like the safe bet may be on Happ returning to the Cubs next season. That's likely to generate some dread among Cubs fans, but it might not be the worst possible outcome.

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