WATCH: 'The Compound' with Ian Happ gives the latest on Cubs Spring Training |
Tony Crumpton
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- 22 hours ago
The Compound: Ian Happ discusses the first week of spring training and looks ahead to a potential milestone of his this season.
Watch the full podcast episode below:
Video summary/cliff-notes:
(00:00) The episode begins with the introduction of the new "Where Can You Find Parse?" segment, highlighting a location in Chicago (3000 North Clark Street) where Parse Rum is available.
(01:05) Discussion on Pete Alonso's two-year, $54 million contract and its structure. Debate over his ranking in OPS+ (15th in MLB) and his overall value as a player.
(05:00) The changing landscape of contracts for 30+ year-old free agents, especially at positions like first base, where it's harder to accumulate high WAR numbers.
(10:26) The challenges of defensive metrics for first basemen, as they don’t get full credit for important plays like scooping bad throws. Comparison with elite defenders like Anthony Rizzo.
(16:03) Trade rumors involving Dylan Cease and Juan Soto, highlighting how teams shop players with one year of control left. Comparison to Kawhi Leonard’s trade in the NBA.
(20:38) No-trade clauses and their impact on player movement, including examples like Bradley Beal in the NBA and how some MLB teams are reluctant to include them.
(22:56) Ian Happ’s daily spring training routine—arriving at the facility around 5:45-6:00 AM to get an early workout in.
(25:48) Zach’s spring training update with the Houston Astros and sponsorship from Bruce Bolt.
(32:25) The excitement of glove selection during spring training, comparing the experience in the major leagues vs. minor leagues.
(42:51) Milestone achievement discussion—reaching 1,000 career games played and the significance of hitting 8 and 10 years of service time in MLB.
