Ian Happ Sends Strong Message During Cubs' Clubhouse Celebration

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Gavin Groe | Last updated Sep 17, 2025 7:15 PM ET

The Chicago Cubs clinched a postseason berth on Wednesday, heading back to the playoffs for the first time since the pandemic-shortened 2020 season. With a 4.5-game deficit in the NL Central, the division title is likely out of reach — but it has still been a successful season for Chicago.

Outfielder Ian Happ remains one of the longest-tenured Cubs and has spent nine seasons with the organization since his MLB debut in 2017. Happ’s career has been productive on both the offensive and defensive end, as he’s collected three Gold Glove Awards and an All-Star selection.

The 30-year-old veteran has emerged as a true leader in the clubhouse and has heated up at the plate recently. In September, Happ has posted a .321 batting average, .443 on-base percentage, 1.068 OPS and five home runs across 15 games.

The Cubs officially clinched a playoff spot after defeating the Pittsburgh Pirates on Wednesday for the team’s fourth consecutive win, and Happ celebrated with his teammates afterward.

During an interview during the celebration, Happ was asked why it was important to celebrate, and he replied, “It’s important to feel this. It’s important to feel what you worked for. For all the young guys who get to experience this and do it, it means more.” (h/t Maddie Lee of the Chicago Sun-Times)

Ian Happ: “It’s important to feel this. It’s important to feel what you worked for.” pic.twitter.com/IWznsi0hd3
— Maddie Lee (@maddie_m_lee) September 17, 2025

The Cubs, of course, have bigger plans on their mind as they attempt to chase down the organization’s first World Series title since 2016. However, Happ expressed the importance of the young stars on the roster — such as Pete Crow-Armstrong and Matt Shaw — experiencing the success of making the playoffs.

Happ himself has not reached the postseason in four years, so he most likely feels a sense of relief after finally making a return and feeling the joy of his hard work paying off.

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

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