Ian Happ's first-inning homer makes history for Cubs

CHICAGO, ILLINOIS - OCTOBER 09: Ian Happ #8 of the Chicago Cubs rounds the bases after hitting a home run during the first inning against the Milwaukee Brewers in game four of the National League Division Series at Wrigley Field on October 09, 2025 in Chicago, Illinois.Michael Reaves/Getty

Something about the first inning gives the Cubs’ offense a jolt.

Maybe manager Craig Counsell gives the best pregame speeches. But whatever the reason, the Cubs have shown up to start games, and that continued Thursday.

With runners on first and second, left fielder Ian Happ belted a three-run homer to left field to give the Cubs an early 3-0 lead. His homer allowed the Cubs to become the first team with a…