Ian Happ's Crucial Three-Run Homer Ignites Cubs' Playoff Victory, Overcoming Postseason Struggles

Ian Happ delivered a pivotal three-run homer in the first inning against the Milwaukee Brewers, propelling the Chicago Cubs to a 6-0 playoff victory and forcing a decisive Game 5 in the NL Division Series. This significant swing came after Happ had a challenging start to the postseason, going 2 for 21 with 11 strikeouts in the Cubs' first six games. Manager Craig Counsell praised Happ for achieving the "playoff moment that he deserved," while teammate Michael Busch recognized him as a team leader. Happ, the longest-tenured Cub, expressed relief and joy, stating it felt "great" to contribute after feeling carried by his teammates. He also noted his history with Brewers pitcher Freddy Peralta, whom he had struggled against in the regular season (2 for 32) but also homered off in Game 1. Happ, drafted ninth overall in 2015, debuted in 2017 and played his 1,000th game this year, finishing the regular season with a .243 average, 23 homers, and 79 RBIs in 150 games despite struggling for much of the year.