Slumping Ian Happ, who had started all but four games this season and had appeared in all but one, was given a scheduled break for the opener of the Cubs’ interleague series Friday against the Twins.
Manager David Ross said he and Happ discussed their options earlier in the week and agreed a little more rest would be prudent after the Cubs’ day off Thursday. Happ, who last sat Sept. 4, was slugging .200 with no home runs and 18 strikeouts in his last 11 games (51 plate appearances).
Ross hinted he was looking to rest other members of the Cubs’ everyday core before the postseason begins.