Cubs Recall Prospect Ballesteros Amid Happ Injury, Trade Deadline Plans

The Chicago Cubs decided not to place outfielder Ian Happ on the injured list after he fouled a ball off his left shin, with X-rays returning negative, although he was not in the lineup for the subsequent game and may miss some time. Despite initial optimism from the team and Happ himself, reports later confirmed he would require a stint on the 10-day injured list, leading the Cubs to promote prospect catcher/designated hitter Moises Ballesteros rather than top outfield prospect Owen Caissie. Caissie’s absence from the call-up suggests the Cubs may be planning to trade him to acquire starting pitching help before the July 31 trade deadline. The Cubs currently trail the Milwaukee Brewers by two games in the NL Central and face them in a crucial series, intensifying the need for roster improvements. Ballesteros, who had a brief and modest MLB debut earlier in the season, is expected to fill in as the designated hitter until Happ returns, signaling the Cubs' intent to keep Ballesteros rather than trade him. These developments come amid a challenging week for the Cubs, including the recent death of Ryne Sandberg and a tough loss against the Brewers.