Cubs rumor likely rules out Ian Happ as Randy Arozarena’s Mariners replacement

Sodo Mojo argues that a recent rumor regarding Ian Happ likely removes the pending free agent as a potential replacement for Randy Arozarena with the Seattle Mariners. According to a report by Pat Ragazzo for Cubbies Crib, Happ could potentially accept a hometown discount in free agency to remain with the Chicago Cubs, having spent his entire major league career with the franchise.

The writer notes that although Happ brings four-time Gold Glove defense and steady leadership, his declining hitting metrics and career-low .218 batting average make him an imperfect target. Furthermore, the writer contends that Seattle is unlikely to enter a bidding war or offer the lucrative deal needed to lure the 32-year-old away from Chicago.