The Chicago Cubs got some good news ahead of their upcoming series against the Reds, but it's doubtful that Cincinnati fans will see the latest announcement through the same lens. Notorious Cincinnati Reds' killer Ian Happ was activated from the injury list on Tuesday, and the next two games against the Miami Marlins will serve as a tuneup for the Cubs' slugger.
According to Marquee Sports, the Cubs activated Happ from the IL and sent outfielder Moisés Ballesteros back down to Triple-A Iowa. Happ had been dealing with an oblique strain and was placed on the injured list earlier this month.
Happ, who attended the University of Cincinnati, has been a thorn in the Reds' side for what seems like a decade. Throughout his career, Happ has hit .282/.397/.606 against the Reds. In 115 games against Cincinnati, Happ has 26 doubles and 31 home runs. His 1.003 OPS against the Reds is his highest versus all MLB clubs.
Ian Happ is back just in time for Reds-Cubs showdown
Though Happ's stats against Cincinnati are impressive, what he's done to the Reds at their home stadium is downright cruel. Happ owns a .311/.417/.684 slash line when the Cubs' go on the road to Great American Ball Park. Only Progressive Field in Cleveland has been more welcoming to the Cubs' outfielder.
Thankfully, the Reds will be getting back some key reinforcements as well. Happ will have to face against Cincinnati's ace on Friday night. Reds manager Terry Francona revealed earlier this week that Hunter Greene will be activated prior to Cincinnati's series opener against Chicago. Left-handers Andrew Abbott and Nick Lodolo will follow Greene on Saturday and Sunday, respectively.
This upcoming series has the chance to set the tone for the NL Central chase this summer. Heading into play on Tuesday, the Cubs hold a one-game lead over the surprising St. Louis Cardinals. Oli Marmol's club was expected to be rebuilding this season, but the Cards are 27-21. The Reds got back over .500 with their 7-1 win against the Pittsburgh Pirates on Monday night and are within 3.5 games of Chicago.
The stakes will be high during the upcoming series against the Cubs. Both clubs haven't tasted the postseason since 2020, and with two high-profile managers, and elite stars like Elly De La Cruz and Kyle Tucker, this weekend's series has the chance to be electric. If only Happ could've stayed away for a few more days.
