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Cubs Rule Out Injured List for Happ, Recall Ballesteros Ahead of Deadline

The roster tweak boosts catching depth, clears a spot, positions the Cubs in the NL Central race, readies them for Thursday’s non-waiver trade deadline.

Jul 29, 2025; Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA; Chicago Cubs outfielder Ian Happ (8) is helped off the field by a Chicago Cubs trainer and manager Craig Counsell (11) after fouling a ball off his foot against the Milwaukee Brewers in the eighth inning at American Family Field. Happ did not return to bat after being taken out of the game. Mandatory Credit: Michael McLoone-Imagn Images.
CHICAGO, ILLINOIS - MAY 16: Moisés Ballesteros #25 of the Chicago Cubs celebrates scoring against the Chicago White Sox at Wrigley Field on May 16, 2025 in Chicago, Illinois.
Cubs designated hitter Moisés Ballesteros is congratulated in the dugout after scoring a run against the White Sox on May 16, 2025, at Wrigley Field. (Chris Sweda/Chicago Tribune)
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Overview

  • Ian Happ avoided the injured list after Tuesday’s X-rays showed no fracture, but he remains day-to-day with shin soreness and was held out of Wednesday’s lineup.
  • Chicago recalled catching prospect Moisés Ballesteros from Triple-A Iowa for his second big-league stint this season.
  • Utilityman Vidal Bruján was designated for assignment to clear the roster spot opened by Ballesteros’s promotion.
  • Manager Craig Counsell said the club debated promoting outfielder Owen Caissie before settling on Ballesteros to address depth needs.
  • The moves give the Cubs roster flexibility as they chase the NL Central lead and prepare for Thursday’s non-waiver trade deadline.