INJURY UPDATE: Cubs Manager Craig Counsell Shares Concerning Update on Ian Happ’s Intercostal Muscle Injury — Family and Team Deeply Concerned

The Chicago Cubs have been dealt a significant blow as outfielder Ian Happ will officially miss both games this weekend due to a lingering intercostal muscle injury, manager Craig Counsell confirmed on Friday. The update has not only raised concerns within the Cubs’ organization but has also prompted worry from Happ’s family and fans, who are closely monitoring his recovery.

Happ, a key part of the Cubs’ offensive and defensive core, was pulled from the lineup earlier this week after experiencing tightness and discomfort in his side. Subsequent evaluations revealed a strain in the intercostal muscles—a tricky injury that can severely affect a player’s ability to swing, throw, and rotate effectively.

Counsell: “We’re Taking It Day-by-Day”

In his pregame media session, Craig Counsell delivered the update many feared but expected:

“Ian will be out for the weekend series. We’re taking a cautious, day-by-day approach with this type of injury. Intercostal strains can be unpredictable, and we want to make sure he heals fully before getting back out there.”

Counsell emphasized that while the injury is not believed to be season-threatening, it is serious enough to warrant immediate rest and careful observation. Happ will undergo further evaluations early next week to determine whether an IL (injured list) stint is necessary.

“The last thing we want is for Ian to push through and make it worse,” Counsell added. “We need him long-term.”

Ian Happ’s Importance to the Cubs

Ian Happ is one of the most consistent contributors on the Cubs roster. A switch-hitter with power from both sides of the plate, he’s also a Gold Glove-caliber left fielder and a clubhouse leader. In the early part of the 2025 season, Happ has provided steady offense and veteran presence, particularly as the team navigates through roster changes and injuries.

His absence from the lineup could impact not only the Cubs’ outfield depth but also their momentum as they push through a critical stretch of games.

Cubs fans immediately took to social media after the update, sharing their well-wishes and expressing concern. Hashtags like #GetWellHapp and #HappStrong quickly began trending locally.

Family Reacts with Support and Concern

Happ’s family, known to be closely involved in his baseball journey, also released a brief statement through the Cubs’ media team:

“Ian is in good hands with the Cubs’ medical staff. He’s staying positive and focused on recovery. We appreciate the love and support from fans and ask for continued prayers as he works his way back to full strength.”

Sources close to the family described them as “naturally concerned” given the location of the injury and the physical demands of Happ’s playing style. While optimistic, they’re said to be encouraging Ian to “prioritize long-term health over rushing back.”

Teammates Rally Behind Happ

Inside the Cubs’ clubhouse, the mood around Happ’s injury has been one of concern but also unity. Teammates like Seiya Suzuki, Nico Hoerner, and Christopher Morel have all spoken out in support.

“Ian is a huge part of this team, on and off the field,” said Hoerner. “We’ll hold it down for him while he heals up. His health comes first.”

Utility players and call-ups from Triple-A Iowa are expected to help fill the void left in Happ’s absence, with Mike Tauchman likely to see more starts in left field during the weekend series.

A Tricky Injury That Requires Patience

Intercostal muscle injuries are notoriously difficult for baseball players, as they impact everything from swinging the bat to fielding and even breathing deeply during high-intensity activity. Depending on the severity, recovery can take anywhere from a few days to several weeks.

Team medical staff have confirmed that Happ’s injury appears to be a Grade 1 strain, the mildest form, but cautioned that “even mild strains can become more serious without proper rest.”

The Cubs are expected to make a decision on whether to place Happ on the 10-day Injured List early next week, depending on how he responds to treatment over the weekend.

Final Thoughts

The news of Ian Happ’s injury comes at a difficult time for a Cubs team trying to stay competitive in a tough NL Central division. While not catastrophic, his absence is deeply felt—on the field, in the clubhouse, and among fans who have come to admire his toughness and leadership.

As the team regroups and looks ahead, all eyes remain on Happ’s recovery. And as manager Craig Counsell made clear, health comes first.

“Ian is a warrior. He’ll be back when he’s ready—and when he is, we’ll be stronger for it.”

Until then, the Cubs community is united in one simple message: Get well soon, Happ. We’ve got your back.