Ian Happ’s comments ignite backlash from frustrated Cubs fans

Then, after the Cubs dropped Game 2 of the series 5-2, he stoked the fire further among the frustrated fans with this post-game comment.

The wrong message at the wrong time from the wrong player

To be fair, Happ has a point. The season is long and far from over. They cannot be too emotional. The players do not watch the standings every game like the fans do. Having two 10-game winning streaks has given them some breathing room in a tough NL Central division.

Happ probably did not mean to spark a firestorm with his comments. In a vacuum, maybe it’s a veteran in him trying to keep things in perspective. After all, he is the longest‑tenured Cub. He has seen his share of ups and downs and overcome them, both as a player and as a team. He deserves the benefit of the doubt while he is battling through his hitting slump.

But after another lifeless offensive performance by the team, the Cubs are now 1.5 games behind the Brewers. They continue to thrive under manager Pat Murphy, who owns both Craig Counsell and the Cubs while poking fun at them. The Brewers are currently a far superior organization to the Cubs in every facet despite the lack of resources. At this rate, they will win the NL Central again easily, dusting the rest of the division.

As for Happ, he went 0-for-4 Wednesday night, striking out twice. He has now struck out 21 times in his last 36 at-bats. Until he and the Cubs start producing again, his comments will be perceived as the embodiment of the entire Cubs organization.