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Cubs Prospect Ian Happ Takes In Wrigley Field

By Chris Emma--

CHICAGO (CBS) -- Out of the home dugout at Wrigley Field walked Ian Happ, the latest addition to the Cubs' bright baseball future, dressed in full pinstripe uniform.

Chicago's first-round selection of 2015, Happ strolled up the dugout steps with Kyle Schwarber, the Cubs' first-round pick of 2014. And then Schwarber introduced him to Kris Bryant, the organization's first-round choice in 2013.

Happ could sense a theme.

"That's the goal -- to be here as soon as possible and help this team," Happ said Friday.

A 20-year-old outfielder from the University of Cincinnati, Happ was selected by the Cubs with their ninth overall selection in June's draft. He joins a ballclub that has built itself with homegrown talent, and he's already moving up the ranks, with a promotion to low-A South Bend.

With the Cubs' short-season affiliate in Eugene, Ore., Happ hit .283 with four home runs and 11 RBIs in 29 games. Now, he's making that next step.

The Cubs can only hope that Happ follows the mold of Schwarber and Bryant, among so many others.

"It's extremely exciting to be a part of something so up and coming, so new," Happ said. "It's exciting for sure."

Before the Chicago's game with Philadelphia on Friday afternoon, Happ was on the field in full uniform and taking batting practice with the Cubs. His family stood off to the side and watched as he got a taste of what could be to come.

"It was just a lot of fun," Happ said. "It was crazy getting here with the family. It was a great experience."

For Happ to make playing at Wrigley Field a fixture anytime soon, he must impress in the minors and show readiness at each level. What gave Schwarber and Bryant the fast track was their preparation and maturity shown in each league.

Follow Chris on Twitter @CEmma670.

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