Ian Happ Powers Cubs Past Phillies With Two Homers in 8–4 Win
In a sizzling June showdown, Ian Happ lit up Wrigley Field with two clutch home runs, leading the Chicago Cubs to a thrilling 8–4 victory over the Philadelphia Phillies. The explosive performance marked his 16th career multi-homer game and injected momentum into a team eyeing a serious playoff push.
Cubs manager Craig Counsell praised Happ’s resurgence: “I think we knew this was coming … and it’s fun to see.” He added, “Everyone had a lot of faith that this was coming… this is what makes a good team, a good offense. Ian can not be clicking, then get hot and win you a game.”
Happ’s sixth-inning blast turned the tide, giving the Cubs a lead they wouldn’t surrender. The win pushes Chicago to the top of the NL Central at 41–26, now holding a 4.5-game cushion over the Cardinals.
Facing Phillies rookie Mick Abel, who had shown promise early in the season, the Cubs took full advantage. Dansby Swanson and Michael Busch also went deep, showcasing the depth and danger of Chicago’s lineup.
With the series finale on deck and Ben Brown set to face Jesús Luzardo, the Cubs are surging with confidence. If Happ keeps swinging like this, Chicago’s offense could become one of the most feared in the league.