9 mins agoChicago Cubs outfielder Ian Happ enjoyed another solid campaign in 2024 as he posted a .243/.341/.441 line, which is right in line with his career marks. However, he matched a career-best 25 long balls (previously set in 2021) and set a new career-high in runs and RBI with 89 and 86, respectively. Under the hood, Happ saw his metrics climb substantially. He boasted a .446 xSLG, 11.7% barrel rate, 45.2% hard-hit rate, and .345 xwOBA, which were all significantly above the average marks of qualified hitters. In addition, Happ continued to showcase his elite eye at the plate, posting a 12.2% walk rate, which put him in the 94th percentile among hitters. This was his second straight campaign, holding a walk rate of at least 12%. Despite his modest batting average, his stellar walk rate allows him to continue to tally a high amount of runs. The switch-hitter has also swiped double-digit bags in each of his past two campaigns. Given his strong on-base skills, fantasy managers in points leagues should push Happ up their draft board, given his current 133.78 ADP compared to managers in standard roto formats. However, seeing Happ continue to improve his power metrics and with his everyday spot in the Cubs lineup, the 30-year-old is a viable No.3 outfielder in standard formats. In addition, with Kyle Tucker added to the Cubs lineup, Happ could be in line to see his counting stats continue to climb.--Andy Smith - RotoBaller