Ian Happ Celebrates 1,000th Game as Cubs Defeat Padres 7-1

Ian Happ of the Chicago Cubs celebrated a significant milestone by playing his 1,000th career game, all with the same franchise, during a 7-1 victory over the San Diego Padres. This achievement places him among the rare group of only eight active players who have hit this mark with one team, joining notable names like Aaron Judge and Mike Trout. Happ's day was highlighted by a spectacular diving catch in the seventh inning, showcasing his defensive prowess as a three-time Gold Glove winner, which delighted the Wrigley Field crowd. The Cubs honored Happ with a standing ovation as he stepped up to bat, marking him as only the third player drafted by the Cubs to reach this milestone. Manager Craig Counsell noted the rarity of such loyalty in today's game, emphasizing the significance of Happ's accomplishment. The Cubs are currently atop the Central Division with a five-game winning streak.