MESA, Ariz. — At some point in his promising career, Pete Crow-Armstrong will possess all the necessary ingredients to emerge as the Cubs’ full-time leadoff hitter.
But the Cubs are in win-now mode, and veteran Ian Happ gives them a semblance of comfort at the leadoff spot at the daunting start of a crucial season.
Manager Craig Counsell will ink Happ’s name at the top of the lineup, as he did for 66 starts in 2024.
“You get to write a new (lineup) every day,” Counsell said. “If you want to make adjustments, … . But (leadoff) is largely where Ian hit most of last year, and I think he did a really good job of it, and it’s about being a good offensive player.”
Happ’s switch-hitting abilities present an early advantage against opponents, and his patience also enables his teammates to see extra pitches before their at-bats. He also provides production, as evidenced by his nine home runs and 33 RBIs from the top spot.
However, Happ’s .340 on-base percentage from the top spot was three points below his career average and 20 points under his career high in a non-COVID season (2023).
“Every season has it’s ups and downs,” Counsell said. “I think Ian’s down part last year was probably a little more drastic for him than normal.
So hopefully it’s just kind of less than that little dip a little bit. And I think it’s really pretty dang good offensive season. So keep him going up there and see how that shakes out.”
The addition of power-hitting left-handed hitter Kyle Tucker, who could bat second or third, might affect Happ’s game only when he reaches base.
“Knowing that those guys can pop a double or home at any time probably changes things a little bit,” Happ said. “I mean, it always used to be a big deal who’s going to bat lead off. But I think that’s my job in this group, is to get on base at the top of the order and give us a chance to score runs early games.”
Meanwhile, Crow-Armstrong’s raw talents are obvious. He stole 27 bases in 30 attempts last season, and this spring he has shown a knack for driving the ball to the opposite field with authority.
Showcasing the ability to bunt would maximize his speed and eventually his on-base percentage. Counsell, however, might be hesitant to try Crow-Armstrong at the leadoff spot until his improves his .286 on-base percentage in 2024.
Should Counsell elect to make a change during the regular season, one consideration is Nico Hoerner, who should be ready by opening day after recovering from right flexor tendon surgery.
“It’s definitely the time of the year where we’re all from the outside, everyone tries to pick an optimal lineup for the team,” Hoerner said. “And then the season happens, and good and bad and everything in between, and there’s always changes.
“So if versatility is a part of what I can do, great. Wherever they need me.”
Hoerner posted a .322 on-base percentage in 65 starts from the leadoff spot last year (.325 lifetime), but he posted an 89.1 percent contact rate last season and 87.2 mark for his career.
“Contact always has been a big part of my game, and something that sets me apart,” Hoerner said. “There’s always a fine line of making contact, but what kind of contact are you making and being able to hold on to your strengths while developing in other parts for your game?
“It’s something I’m always working on and aware of.”