Ian Happ Suffers Mild Hamstring Strain, Not Expected to Hit IL

The Cubs announced Saturday that Ian Happ is dealing with a mild hamstring strain that will keep him out of Cactus League action for a while. They declined to offer a timeline for his return, but the expectation is that he’ll be ready for Opening Day. He will need to get into a few games in order to be fully prepared, however, so this could become an issue if he’s out more than two weeks.

Even if the hammy injury persists, don’t expect Owen Caissie to be in the mix to replace Happ. I know I wrote earlier that an injury could accelerate the ginger prospect’s promotion, but that was meant to be something more severe at a point where the Cubs might need a spark. Since Caissie isn’t on the 40-man roster and Happ shouldn’t be out long, this isn’t something that will alter the organization’s plans.