Say What You Will, This Stat Proves Ian Happ Is On An Elite Level

Brett Davis-Imagn Images

Say What You Will, This Stat Proves Ian Happ Is On An Elite Level

Originally posted on On Tap Sports Net | By Tommy Erbe | Last updated May 15, 2026 5:32 PM ET

When it is all said and done, Ian Happ may go down in Chicago Cubs history as one of the most underappreciated players of all-time. Whether it’s his spot in the batting order or the ill-timed strikeouts, he’s always on somebody’s list. However, take a breath, and scope out to look at what he’s doing.

Going into Friday, Happ has 10 home runs and 30 walks on the year offensively. He is one of only four players in MLB to do that thus far in 2026. The others are Aaron Judge, James Wood, and Mike Trout. His production in the lineup plays a part in the Cubs’ lead in their division.

Happ’s average is low, just .230 on the year. But his 10 home runs and 33 walks lead the Cubs. So does his .376/.481/.857 slash line, all above league average (.319/.389/.708). He’s most known for his value defensively, though, ranking as one of the best outfielders in baseball. There’s a reason he has four Gold Glove Awards, all consecutively.

Happ is in his 10th MLB year, all with the Cubs. His contract expires at the end of the year, too. Questions and decisions loom for both Happ and the Cubs on the future of the two sides together. When asked about it before the season began, Happ said it’s “totally plausible” that he continues his career elsewhere after the 2026 season.

Regardless, Happ and the Cubs are in the middle of a 2026 season with lofty expectations. Their minds and efforts are focused on a championship. The business side of things will have to come after that.

This article first appeared on On Tap Sports Net and was syndicated with permission.

More must-reads: