Cubs’ Craig Counsell Makes Roster Decision After Trade Deadline

The Chicago Cubs are adjusting how they use veteran outfielder Ian Happ following the MLB trade deadline, with manager Craig Counsell indicating the switch-hitter will face fewer left-handed pitchers going forward.

Happ has struggled mightily against southpaws this season. In 125 plate appearances while batting right-handed, he has managed just a .530 OPS, leaving the team searching for better matchups in the outfield.

The arrival of newly acquired outfielder Tyrone Taylor provides the Cubs with a ready option. Taylor is making his Cubs debut in left field Tuesday night against the Los Angeles Dodgers and their new left-handed ace Tarik Skubal.

Counsell confirmed the shift in approach after the deadline activity, noting there will be spots where Happ sits against left-handed starters. The manager emphasized the team still hopes to get Happ going against those pitchers but will be more selective.

Taylor’s presence gives the club flexibility it lacked earlier in the year. The Cubs added the outfielder as part of their deadline moves, aiming to bolster depth for a playoff push.

Happ remains a key piece of the roster as the most tenured Cub and a respected clubhouse presence. He continues to provide strong defense in left field, an asset the pitching staff values highly.

The decision does not mean Happ is completely out of the mix against lefties. Counsell said the team may still insert him later in games against southpaws when opportunities arise for him to contribute off the bench.

This adjustment comes as the Cubs navigate the final stretch of the regular season. Chicago has positioned itself as a contender in the National League, and optimizing the lineup against tough matchups is part of that effort.

Happ’s overall body of work this year has included solid production against right-handers, where his switch-hitting ability has shown better results. The split against lefties has stood out as the clear area needing attention.

Fans at Wrigley Field have watched Happ battle through the inconsistency. The four-time Gold Glove winner has earned loyalty through his consistent effort and leadership over nearly a decade with the organization.

The trade deadline additions, including Taylor, signal the front office’s willingness to address specific weaknesses. Starting pitching was a primary focus, but the outfield platoon possibility emerged as another practical step.

Looking ahead, the Cubs will monitor how the new arrangement works in practice. Early tests against lefties like Skubal will offer the first real look at Taylor in the everyday mix while Happ takes a reduced role in those situations.

Happ has expressed mixed feelings about the deadline in general, thrilled by the reinforcements but noting the emotional side of seeing some teammates depart. His focus remains on helping the team win in whatever capacity the coaches ask.

The move reflects a pragmatic approach from Counsell and the staff. With the postseason approaching, maximizing every at-bat becomes critical, and the numbers against left-handed pitching made the change hard to ignore.

Chicago’s lineup will continue to feature Happ regularly against right-handers. His experience and ability to work counts remain valuable assets as the club fights for positioning in a competitive National League landscape.