Cubs Star Ian Happ Focused on Winning as Free Agency Nears

Outfielder Ian Happ is in the final year of his contract with the Chicago Cubs, but his priority is helping the team make a championship run.

Published on Mar. 10, 2026

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Chicago Cubs outfielder Ian Happ is entering the final year of his contract with the team, but he is not letting his impending free agency become a distraction. Happ's sole focus is on helping the Cubs win and make a deep playoff run this season, after the team returned to the postseason in 2025 for the first time since his rookie year in 2017. Despite the uncertainty surrounding his future, Happ is determined to be "present" and enjoy his time in Chicago, where he has established himself as a Gold Glove-caliber outfielder with an improved offensive game.

Why it matters

Happ's approach to his contract year reflects his maturity and commitment to the team. As the Cubs look to build on their 2025 playoff appearance and challenge the powerhouse Los Angeles Dodgers in the National League, Happ's leadership and production will be crucial. His ability to block out external factors and stay focused on winning could set an example for his teammates and help the Cubs achieve their championship aspirations.

The details

Happ, who is entering his 10th season with the Cubs, is determined not to let his impending free agency become a distraction. According to The Athletic's Sahadev Sharma, Happ's sole focus is on winning and enjoying the moment with his teammates. Happ believes the Cubs have a chance to not only win the NL Central, but also make a deep playoff run, despite the challenge posed by the Dodgers. The 28-year-old outfielder is in a much different place than he was during his last contract year, having established himself as a Gold Glove-caliber defender and improved his offensive production.

  • Happ is entering the final year of his contract with the Cubs in 2026.
  • Happ helped the Cubs return to the playoffs in 2025 for the first time since his rookie season in 2017.

The players

Ian Happ

A 28-year-old outfielder who has spent his entire 10-year MLB career with the Chicago Cubs. Happ is a four-time Gold Glove winner and is entering the final year of his contract with the team.

Sahadev Sharma

A reporter for The Athletic who covers the Chicago Cubs.

Los Angeles Dodgers

The perennial National League powerhouse that the Cubs will have to contend with in their quest for a championship.

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What they’re saying

“The focus is just so much on this group. Both enjoying it and playing really good baseball together. It makes it a lot easier when you're on a good team that's going to compete that that can be the main focus.”

— Ian Happ (The Athletic)

“It's way different. Where you're at in your career, having had some consistency, having already been paid (essentially) as a free agent is much more comforting. You're at a different point of your career and life, so it's a much different experience.”

— Ian Happ (The Athletic)

“I will be back in Chicago. No matter where I am next season, I will be back in Chicago. But enjoying it now in this moment is important to me. Having it happen with guys you love and want to compete with makes it a lot easier.”

— Ian Happ (The Athletic)

What’s next

The Cubs will look to build on their 2025 playoff appearance and challenge the Dodgers for National League supremacy in 2026, with Happ playing a key role.

The takeaway

Ian Happ's mature approach to his contract year, with a singular focus on winning and enjoying the moment with his teammates, sets a positive example for the Cubs as they aim to contend for a championship. His ability to block out external factors and stay present could be a crucial factor in the team's success.