Ian Happ Injury: Cubs Outfielder Set to Miss Significant Time with Oblique Strain
Cubs Outfielder Ian Happ Injured
Chicago Cubs outfielder Ian Happ is set to miss significant time after suffering an oblique strain in Tuesday's game against the St. Louis Cardinals. The injury occurred while Happ was taking a swing in the third inning, and he immediately left the game. An MRI confirmed the strain, and the Cubs have placed Happ on the 10-day injured list.
Happ's Injury a Blow to Cubs
Happ's injury is a major blow to the Cubs, who are already without several key players. The outfielder has been one of the team's most consistent hitters this season, batting .271 with 10 home runs and 33 RBIs. He is also a Gold Glove-caliber defender in center field.
With Happ out of the lineup, the Cubs will likely turn to Rafael Ortega or Christopher Morel to fill in at center field. Both players have played well in limited action this season, but they are not as experienced as Happ.
Cubs Hoping for Quick Return
The Cubs are hoping that Happ's injury is not too serious and that he will be able to return to the lineup soon. However, oblique strains can be tricky to heal, and there is no guarantee that Happ will be back in time for the postseason.
The Cubs are currently in third place in the NL Central, 5.5 games behind the first-place Milwaukee Brewers. With Happ out of the lineup, the Cubs' chances of catching the Brewers have taken a hit.
Happ's Injury History
Happ has a history of oblique injuries. He missed time with a similar injury in 2019, and he also dealt with an oblique strain in 2021. The Cubs will be hoping that Happ's latest injury is not as serious as his previous ones.
The Cubs are scheduled to play the Cardinals again on Wednesday night. Kyle Hendricks will start for the Cubs, while Miles Mikolas will start for the Cardinals.
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