Ranking the Chicago Cubs first round draft picks since 2013

2. OF Ian Happ 2015

After impressing for the University of Cincinnati Bearcats for three seasons, Ian Happ was selected by the Cubs as the 9th overall pick in 2015. Happ tore his way to Triple-A Iowa within two years and was called up to the big league squad in 2017. In his first year at Wrigley, Happ cranked 24 homers and drove in 68. Offensive struggles plagued his game at the plate in 2019, leading to a tough-love demotion to Iowa in 2019. However, he took the assignment in stride and used his demotion as an opportunity to return his swing to form.

2021 and 2022 were arguably the best years of Happ's career, as he collected 42 home runs, 138 RBIs, 120 walks, 62 doubles, and a gold glove in that time. The 28-year-old has also emerged as a leader in the clubhouse and the team's Player's Association representative.