Cubs Welcome Back Reds Nemesis Ian Happ Ahead of Critical Division Matchup
The Chicago Cubs got a major boost ahead of their upcoming series against the Cincinnati Reds — though Reds fans likely won’t be celebrating the news. Outfielder Ian Happ, long known for tormenting Cincinnati, was activated from the injured list on Tuesday and is expected to use the Cubs’ next two games against the Miami Marlins as a warm-up before the divisional clash.
Per Marquee Sports Network, Happ returned to the active roster after recovering from an oblique strain that sidelined him earlier this month. In a corresponding move, Chicago optioned rookie outfielder Moisés Ballesteros to Triple-A Iowa.
Happ, a University of Cincinnati alum, has carved out a reputation as one of the Reds’ biggest nightmares. Across 115 career games against them, he’s slashed an intimidating .282/.397/.606 with 26 doubles, 31 home runs, and a 1.003 OPS — the highest he’s posted against any MLB team. His dominance is even more pronounced at Great American Ball Park, where he boasts a staggering .311/.417/.684 line.
Cincinnati, however, is bracing for Happ’s return with reinforcements of their own. Reds manager Terry Francona confirmed ace Hunter Greene will be activated for Friday’s series opener. Southpaws Andrew Abbott and Nick Lodolo will follow on Saturday and Sunday, respectively, to round out a formidable weekend rotation.
With the Cubs clinging to a narrow one-game lead in the NL Central over the resurgent Cardinals — and the Reds closing in after a strong showing against the Pirates — this weekend’s series could heavily influence the divisional race. Both clubs are hungry to return to the postseason after four years of absence, and with stars like Elly De La Cruz and Kyle Tucker in the spotlight, fans are in for a thrilling showdown.
Still, Cincinnati might’ve preferred if Happ’s return came just a few days later.