Chicago Cubs left fielder and former Cincinnati Bearcats star Ian Happ recently signed a 3-year extension worth approximately $61 million to remain with the franchise through 2026.
After being named an All-Star for the first time a year ago, Happ has continued to play at a high level this season and was rewarded with a multi-year deal from the Cubs in early April.
During his career with the Bearcats, Happ finished with the third best on-base percentage and fifth most stolen bases in school history en route to receiving 2015 AAC Player of the Year.
The Pittsburgh native spent just three years at Cincinnati but is undoubtedly one of the best players in program history after earning All-AAC First Team honors in 2014 and 2015.
Seven years ago, @ihapp_1 was selected by @Cubs with the 9th overall pick in @MLBDraft. Now he’s adding MLB All-Star to his resumé after being announced as a reserve in the upcoming @AllStarGame on July 19.https://t.co/u9NllVxUpO pic.twitter.com/HMHTVBmC85
— Cincy on the Prowl (@CincyOnTheProwl) July 11, 2022
Cincinnati Baseball: Chicago Cubs star outfielder Ian Happ receives multi-year contract extension
Even though he was nearly traded at the deadline last year, Happ has seemingly become a key part of the Cubs future and currently leads the team with nine doubles this season.
Happ reflected on his decision to sign an extension with Chicago in a press conference via Marquee Sports Network.
"“It’s the place that I’ve always wanted to be. I’ve been pretty clear about that for a long time. Just the fact that I’ve wanted to wear this uniform for as long as I possibly can, made it pretty easy. To me the exciting part about being here is being able to build something and work towards a championship. I think the motivating factor for me is how much I love this place and love the idea of competing in the playoffs in a Cubs uniform. That was the part that was so motivating.”"