Counsell Says Nico Hoerner Will Lead Off Against Lefties

Ian Happ has been struggling as of late, batting just .080 over his last seven games. Aside from his home run surge in late June, the left fielder’s past month has been largely underwhelming.

Over his last 16 games, Ian Happ has posted a 29 wRC+ with a 24.3% walk rate. He had a day off on Friday, with Seiya Suzuki filling in for him in left field. Happ returned to the lineup on Saturday, but not in his usual spot at the top of the order.

Cubs manager Craig Counsell: “I talked to Ian (Happ) and we’re going to make a change at the leadoff spot against lefties. For now, Nico (Hoerner) will lead off. He’s been productive against left-handed pitching. It’s as simple as that.”

— Patrick Mooney (@PJ_Mooney) July 12, 2025

While Happ has posted just a 93 wRC+ against left-handers this season, Nico Hoerner boasts a remarkable 154 wRC+ in those matchups. Hoerner’s speed has long made him an intriguing leadoff option, and he’s finally getting a real opportunity, at least against left-handed starters.

With Max Fried scheduled to start for the Braves on Saturday, Hoerner is leading off for the second straight game. Will Warren is currently projected to start the series finale, which likely means Happ will return to the top of the order on Sunday.

“It’s not unusual for Happ to go through slumps like this—we’ve seen it multiple times before. His season wRC+ still sits at 100, indicating he’s been a league-average hitter overall. Given his track record of rebounding later in the year, there’s reason to believe he’ll find his form again. Still, moving him down in the lineup is a smart, proactive move by manager Craig Counsell.