Chicago Cubs shortstop Dansby Swanson has been a reliable presence all year long. His numbers do not jump off the page offensively, as he has posted a .216 batting average, .300 on-base percentage, .704 OPS, 18 home runs and 66 RBIs across 403 at-bats this year.
However, much of Swanson’s value comes from other aspects, including his elite defense at a premium position along with his speed. He has swiped 17 bags this year while being caught just once.
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At 32 years old and now in his 11th season, he also thrives in the intangibles as a clubhouse leader and a player who knows what it takes to win. He is a two-time All-Star and former World Series champion during his time with the Atlanta Braves.
Swanson unfortunately suffered an injury during Sunday’s series finale against the St. Louis Cardinals. In his first plate appearance, Swanson swung and grimaced in pain while taking an awkward swing.
He fell over and after a brief discussion with manager Craig Counsell and the training staff, was removed from the game. James Triantos pinch-hit for Swanson, and in the top of the fourth he took over at second base with Nico Hoerner shifting over to the vacated spot at shortstop.
The Cubs announced an update on Swanson’s condition moments later. “Dansby Swanson left today’s game with left side discomfort,” the team wrote on X.
If Swanson does end up needing a stint on the 10-day injured list, Hoerner would likely take over at shortstop with Triantos and Pedro Ramirez possibly filling in elsewhere in the infield.
Matt Shaw is also an option in the coming weeks as he continues to recover from a left hand sprain. Chicago is hoping that is not the case, and Counsell will likely have further updates during postgame.
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