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Cubs Make Top Prospect Move Amid Ian Happ News

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Matt Graves | Last updated May 20, 2025 3:35 PM ET

The Chicago Cubs are activating left fielder Ian Happ from the injured list ahead of Tuesday's game against the Miami Marlins.

Cubs president Jed Hoyer confirmed the move during an appearance on 670 The Score.

Happ, 30, spent the minimum 10 days on the injured list after sustaining a left oblique strain on May 9. In 39 games this season, he's slashing .269/.364/.381 with three home runs and 19 RBI.

To clear a roster spot, rookie designated hitter Moisés Ballesteros will return to Triple-A Iowa.

Ballesteros, 21, is ranked as the Cubs' No. 4 prospect by MLB Pipeline. He didn't produce much in five games, hitting .188/.278/.188 with the three runs scored and five RBI.

The Cubs only used Ballesteros as a designated hitter over the past week. He's a polished offensive player, but needs to continue to develop his game as a catcher in Iowa.

With the return of Happ, he's likely to return to his previous place as the Cubs' leadoff hitter despite center fielder Pete Crow-Armstrong's strong production there in Happ's absence.

The Cubs like Happ in the leadoff spot due to his consistent ability to get on base. Happ boasts a .364 on-base percentage this season compared to Crow-Armstrong's .317. Happ owns a career .344 on-base percentage.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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