It has been known for quite some time now that the Philadelphia Phillies are searching for outfield help as the trade deadline rapidly approaches at the end of the month. Rumors have been floating around potential candidates such as Luis Robert Jr. and Tommy Pham. However, a new target for the Phillies has surfaced in recent days, out of the Windy City.
Mark Feinsand of MLB.com recently suggested that in addition to Robert and Pham, Ian Happ of the Chicago Cubs would be an ideal solution to the Phillies’ outfield situation. With the Cubs in the midst of a disappointing season in which they are currently dead last in the NL Central and trailing another six teams for the third and final Wild Card spot, they will likely enter the trade deadline as bold sellers. As a result, Happ could be made available and would be an excellent addition to Philadelphia.
The former All-Star has shown throughout his career that he can get things done on both sides of the ball. Happ’s well-roundedness would be a perfect fit in terms of what the Phillies need in their everyday lineup. Not only is Happ a two-time Gold Glove winner, but he’s also an offensive machine, averaging close to 77 runs scored, 24 home runs and 77 RBI per season over a 162-game pace.
This season, Happ was struggling at the plate but has started to improve, as he currently sports a .242 average with a .806 OPS. Nevertheless, the consistent production is still there, scoring 47 runs and amassing 20 doubles, 13 home runs and 52 RBI in 83 games. That would mean 80+ runs, 30+ doubles, 20+ home runs and 80+ RBI over the course of the season. On top of that, he has been perfect in the outfield over 74 starts, registering five outfield assists and 3 DRS in the process.
At only 29 years old, Happ is still in his prime, which the Phillies should take full advantage of by adding him to the team. If they need to sacrifice a prospect or two to get it done, so be it. At least the Phillies won’t need to empty the farm system to pursue someone like Robert or Pham, who’s a tier below offensively and defensively. So it’s time for Philadelphia to make something happen and equip themselves with the best possible roster heading into the stretch run. And that starts with Ian Happ.
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