Watch: Ian Happ hits laser home run on Opening Day

Chicago Cubs outfielder Ian Happ. Joe Camporeale-Imagn Images

Watch: Cubs' Ian Happ brings bat to Opening Day, hits laser home run

By Mike J. Asti | Last updated Mar 28, 2025 12:32 AM ET

Already 0-2 on the season from dropping both games to the Dodgers in the Tokyo Series, the Cubs were in desperate need of a big night on MLB's Opening Day. And in the top of the fourth inning, Ian Happ continued playing the role of hero for Cubs.

Happ, who picked up only two hits in both games in Tokyo — technically the first two games of Chicago's season, sent a laser over the fence in right field. At the time, the home run gave Happ two hits, two runs and three RBI on Friday night alone.

The left fielder's home run also put the Cubs up 4-2 over the Diamondbacks in the fourth inning, a margin they would extend to 8-4 in the sixth.

Ian Happ extends the @Cubs lead with a line drive home run! #OpeningDay pic.twitter.com/yMhtB9WWDH
— MLB (@MLB) March 28, 2025

Happ entered the game with a .286 average and one RBI on the 2025 season.

As the Cubs look to recover from a disappointing 83-79 season, Happ will be relied upon to be a veteran leader and continue the individual success he's enjoyed each of the last two seasons.

In 2024, Happ played in 153 games, hit 25 home runs, recorded 86 RBI, scored 89 runs, walked 80 times and stole 13 bases. He did only hit .243 average wise. Two seasons ago in 2023, Happ sent 21 balls over the fence, drove in 84 runs, had 86 runs scored and stole 14 bases in 158 games.

Happ's durability and ability to hit well enough at the top of the order, bring seed to the base pads and play stellar defense in the outfield make him an incredibly important piece if Chicago is going to hope to contend in the National League Central.

The Cubs play this four-game series in Arizona before staying out west to play the Athletics in their new Sacramento home in a series that starts on March 31.

Mike J. Asti

Mike Asti is an experienced media personality and journalist with a vast resume and skillset, most notably from time with TribLIVE Radio and WPXI-TV. Asti now serves as the Managing Editor of WV Sports Now, where he leads the coverage of WVU sports. He has also covered the Steelers, Penguins, Pirates and other teams within the Pittsburgh market

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