Ian Happ
Trade rumors have circulated around Ian Happ for years. This might be the time that happens.
As the San Diego Padres have been linked to Chad Pinder recently, it would make sense that they would target similar players if the A’s asking price is beyond what would be considered reasonable. Happ would certainly be that player, given his ability to play all three spots in the outfield as well as second and third base.
He would have advantages over acquiring Pinder as well. Happ is capable of playing in center, something that Pinder has not done since 2019. He is also under team control through 2023, making him more than just a two or three month rental option for the Padres as they move forward.
At the same time, that extra year of team control will increase his price tag in any trade talks. The same can be said for his production this year as Happ is in the midst of a career season. He has posted a 140 OPS+ with eight homers and 16 doubles in his 278 plate appearances entering Saturday, his 2.5 bWAR already surpassing his previous best mark. A case can be made that, if the Cubs get a second All Star, it should be him.
After years of speculation, this may be the year that Ian Happ is traded, The San Diego Padres would be a solid fit.