50 Facts About Ian Happ

Early Life and Background

Ian Happ, a professional baseball player, has an intriguing background that shaped his career. Here are some fascinating facts about his early life.

1. Born on August 12, 1994, in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, Ian Happ grew up in a sports-loving family.
2. His father, Keith Happ, was a renowned agronomist who worked with golf courses, influencing Ian's appreciation for sports.
3. Ian attended Mt. Lebanon High School, where he excelled in both baseball and academics.
4. He played for the Mt. Lebanon Blue Devils, showcasing his talent early on.
5. Happ was also a standout student, earning a spot on the honor roll multiple times.

College Career

Ian Happ's college years were pivotal in his development as a baseball player. Let's delve into his time at the University of Cincinnati.

6. Ian attended the University of Cincinnati, majoring in finance.
7. He played for the Cincinnati Bearcats, where he quickly became a star player.
8. In his freshman year, Happ led the team in batting average, home runs, and RBIs.
9. He was named a Freshman All-American by Baseball America.
10. During his junior year, Happ was a semifinalist for the Golden Spikes Award, given to the best amateur baseball player in the United States.

Professional Career

Ian Happ's journey to Major League Baseball (MLB) is filled with notable achievements and milestones.

11. The Chicago Cubs selected Happ in the first round of the 2015 MLB Draft, 9th overall.
12. He signed with the Cubs for a $3 million signing bonus.
13. Ian made his professional debut with the Eugene Emeralds, the Cubs' Class A-Short Season affiliate.
14. He quickly moved up the ranks, playing for the South Bend Cubs, Myrtle Beach Pelicans, and Tennessee Smokies.
15. Happ made his MLB debut on May 13, 2017, against the St. Louis Cardinals, hitting a home run in his first game.

Major League Highlights

Ian Happ has had several memorable moments in his MLB career. Here are some highlights.

16. In 2017, Happ hit 24 home runs, setting a Cubs rookie record for switch-hitters.
17. He played in the 2017 National League Championship Series (NLCS) against the Los Angeles Dodgers.
18. Ian hit a grand slam on Opening Day in 2018, the first player to do so since 1986.
19. He was named the National League Player of the Week in August 2020.
20. Happ finished the 2020 season with a .258 batting average, 12 home runs, and 28 RBIs.

Personal Life

Beyond baseball, Ian Happ has a rich personal life filled with interesting facts.

21. Ian is an avid golfer, often playing in charity tournaments.
22. He has a dog named Norman, who frequently appears on his social media.
23. Happ is passionate about coffee and even started his own coffee company, Connect Roasters.
24. He is involved in various charitable activities, including the Anthony Rizzo Family Foundation.
25. Ian enjoys traveling and exploring new places during the offseason.

Fun Facts

Here are some fun and lesser-known facts about Ian Happ that fans might find intriguing.

26. Ian is a switch-hitter, meaning he can bat both right-handed and left-handed.
27. He has a tattoo of a baseball on his left wrist.
28. Happ is a fan of the Pittsburgh Steelers, his hometown NFL team.
29. He once hit a home run that landed in a boat on the Allegheny River during a game against the Pittsburgh Pirates.
30. Ian has a superstition of eating the same meal before every game: chicken and rice.

Awards and Recognitions

Ian Happ's talent has not gone unnoticed. Here are some of the awards and recognitions he has received.

31. In 2015, Happ was named the American Athletic Conference Player of the Year.
32. He was a two-time All-American during his college career.
33. Ian was named the Cubs' Minor League Player of the Year in 2016.
34. In 2020, he won the Cubs' Heart and Hustle Award, given to the player who best embodies the values, spirit, and traditions of the game.
35. Happ was a finalist for the 2020 Gold Glove Award for his defensive prowess in the outfield.

Community Involvement

Ian Happ is dedicated to giving back to the community. Here are some ways he has made an impact.

36. Ian frequently participates in Cubs' community outreach programs.
37. He has hosted baseball clinics for young aspiring players.
38. Happ supports the Special Olympics, often attending events and fundraisers.
39. He is an advocate for mental health awareness, using his platform to promote the cause.
40. Ian has donated to various food banks and shelters, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Future Prospects

Ian Happ's career is still on the rise, with many exciting prospects ahead.

41. Happ is expected to be a key player for the Cubs in the coming seasons.
42. He continues to work on improving his batting average and defensive skills.
43. Ian is seen as a potential future All-Star, given his consistent performance.
44. He aims to lead the Cubs to another World Series title.
45. Happ's leadership qualities make him a candidate for future team captaincy.

Interesting Tidbits

Here are some additional interesting tidbits about Ian Happ that fans might enjoy.

46. Ian has a knack for hitting home runs in crucial moments, earning him the nickname "Clutch Happ."
47. He enjoys cooking and often shares his culinary creations on social media.
48. Happ is a fan of classic rock music, with The Rolling Stones being one of his favorite bands.
49. He has a collection of vintage baseball cards, including some rare ones from the 1950s.
50. Ian Happ is known for his positive attitude and work ethic, inspiring both teammates and fans alike.

Ian Happ: A True Baseball Gem

Ian Happ's journey in baseball is nothing short of inspiring. From his college days at the University of Cincinnati to becoming a key player for the Chicago Cubs, his dedication and talent shine through. Happ's versatility on the field, playing multiple positions, makes him a valuable asset to his team. Off the field, his involvement in charity work and community service shows his commitment to giving back.

Happ's passion for the game and his continuous improvement make him a player to watch. Whether hitting home runs or making crucial plays, he consistently proves his worth. His story is a testament to hard work, perseverance, and love for the sport. As fans, we can only look forward to more incredible moments from Ian Happ in the future.