It sure sounds like Cubs identify Ian Happ's replacement in latest MLB mock draft

The MLB Draft is one week from Saturday, and there's any number of directions the Chicago Cubs can take. The general consensus is that the Cubs should prioritize adding as many arms to their system as possible, but it's certainly possible the teams falls back on the strategy they know best in drafting a college bat.

If that's the direction the Cubs go, it would seem likely that they may target an outfielder. It would be a curious approach, considering the Cubs were outfielder-heavy in last summer's draft. But with a potential trade of Kevin Alcantara looming, and Ian Happ and Seiya Suzuki free agents after this season, there's an argument that could be made.

Especially because the Cubs have found success with drafting college bats who could ascend quickly through their system. That was the case with Matt Shaw, and ultimately held true with Cam Smith.

It's strategy that Sports Illustrated's Ryan Phillips used in his latest 2026 MLB Draft. The Cubs forego pitching in the first round, and select Louisville outfielder Zion Rose.

Unlike with other college bats in this year's draft class, the home run numbers aren't there. He has 24 home runs across his three seasons with the Cardinals, and but he has a 45/50 raw power grade. His slugging percentage has also been over .500 in each of those three seasons. He's got the speed and arm to roam the outfield, but the overall expectation is that he won't be an above-average fielder. For that reason, it would seem that Rose is ticketed for left field.

Cubs might need to replace Ian Happ next season, but the answer might not be in the MLB draft.

A college bat earmarked for left field? Are the Cubs getting a jumpstart on replacing Happ? Probably not. The Cubs have other prospects already in their system who would likely fit that bill, but taking an outfielder like Rose would certainly give them options in future years. At the very least, make some of the outfielders in the lower levels of the Cubs' system more expendable at the trade deadline.

As for what that means for Happ's future, to be determined. There's a strong case to be made that the Cubs should act with urgency to sign Happ to a new deal before the current CBA expires. It certainly could be wishful thinking, considering Happ will be one of the top bats available in free agency, but getting an early deal done would allow the Cubs to focus the rest of their offseason on adding pitching.

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