Ian Happ's most polarizing trait could keep him with Cubs in 2027

Ian Happ has become one of the most polarizing players on the Chicago Cubs' roster. While Happ has been one of most consistent players throughout his tenure in Chicago, his 2026 season has left the impression that perhaps the Cubs won't be in a rush to be at the top of Happ's market this offseason.

That doesn't mean that the door has been closed for Happ to return to the Cubs next season. In fact, the impression from the latest episode of North Side Territory is that the Cubs haven't closed the door signing Happ to another contract.

While the odds of Happ returning to Cubs was discussed through the lens of Seiya Suzuki likely pricing himself out of the team's interest level this winter, the idea may not be that farfetched.

A quick reminder on the truths facing the Cubs this season. Both Happ and Suzuki will be free agent this offseason. Most of the Cubs' pitching staff will also hit free agency. The Cubs' primary focus will be on adding pitching. Suzuki is pacing to be one of the best free-agent bats available. Happ should also be coveted, but his peculiar 2026 season likely places him in tier below Suzuki's contract projections.

It's also likely that the Cubs want to use one of the corner outfield spots for a combination of Matt Shaw and Pedro Ramirez. Still, from a roster construction standpoint, it would make sense for the Cubs to find some power in the outfield, considering what the lineup could look like without both Happ and Suzuki.

Ian Happ's polarizing 2026 season could create an offseason benefit for the Cubs

That brings us to the merits of the Cubs bringing back Happ. The same thing that has made Happ polarizing this season, the prolonged slumps and high strikeout rate, could be what keeps him in the price range for the Cubs this winter. Despite Happ eclipsing 20 home run in a season for the fourth consecutive year, interested teams will likely point to his strikeout rate north of 31% as a reason why to avoid paying him top dollar this offseason.

Then comes to the idea of the Cubs potentially extending the qualifying offer to Happ, which could carry of set of penalties that suffocates his market. Though, that likely will need to be worked out with the new CBA.

Factor in Happ's fondness for Chicago and playing for the Cubs, and it's easy to see how a suppressed market could lead to his return. Again, that doesn't mean he won't be frustrating, and his lows will certainly be felt. But, for what this Cubs team needs, Happ being who he's been is far from a bad thing, especially if it's on a discounted rate.

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