Mt. Lebanon's Ian Happ Talks About Getting Ready For MLB Draft
PITTSBURGH (93-7 The Fan) – Mt. Lebanon High School and University of Cincinnati product Ian Happ is expected to be a first-round pick in next week's MLB Draft. Today, he joined "The Fan Morning Show" to talk about his development and his hopes for the future.
Happ, who has played both infield and outfield for the Bearcats, said it would be great to get drafted by the Pirates.
"It'd be pretty cool," Happ said. "Growing up in Pittsburgh and being to all the games at PNC- it's a great park and would be a cool place to play."
Happ said that he's gotten to talk to current Pirate and fellow former Bearcat Josh Harrison.
"He's been back to campus and I've had a chance to talk to him," Happ said. "Unbelievable guy and we were actually recruited by the same coach. I played my first year under the head coach he played for. Just an unbelievable human being."
Happ said he's hoping to settle into one position at the Major League level, like Josh Harrison eventually did- though it took some time for Harrison.
"For me, the part I'm most excited about is locking down one position on defense," Happ said. "Having a team tell me, you know, this is where you're going to play, this is where we want you to play, and be the best I can at that position."
However, Happ knows his versatility can be an asset, just like Harrison's has been.
"I still want to stay versatile where, you know, if a team needs me to go out and play the outfield or come in and play an infield position," Happ said. "Whatever I can do to be in the lineup that day."
The interview can be heard here: