BALLER MOVE: Target ~125
CURRENT ADP: 136
ANALYSIS: Chicago Cubs second baseman/outfielder Ian Happ will look to build off a strong rookie year. Happ was called up earlier than expected, but never looked back. If his minor league track record is any reference, Happ improved his batting average 20 points from his first year to his second year and it was up another 20 points in 26 games prior to his call-up.
The youngster still has plenty of time to improve on his .253 batting average but hit 24 home runs with 68 RBI and eight stolen bases in 115 games. The biggest challenge for fantasy owners and Happ will be how much playing time will he get? Javier Baez is slated to start at second base and the Cubs have many options in the outfield with Kyle Schwarber, Albert Almora, Ben Zobrist and Jason Heyward. His best bet is to earn the everyday starting center field job over Albert Almora for everyday at-bats.
Regardless of if he has a definitive position, Happ should still draw enough at-bats to make a fantasy impact. He should be drafted in all dynasty, NL-only and mixed leagues as he offers dual eligibility and strong power numbers.
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