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Ian Happ probably could’ve started the Cubs’ series finale Sunday with the Marlins. The risk, however, wasn’t worth the reward.
Dealing with left hamstring tightness, Happ was out of the lineup for the third straight game but available to come off the bench. Happ exited during the seventh inning of Friday’s win over Miami after feeling something in the same area that cost him much of spring training. Playing Saturday, which would’ve meant 18 innings in cold weather, was something the Cubs wanted to stay away from.
Wanting to avoid a prolonged regular-season absence, Happ and the Cubs the veteran outfielder are being cautious.