Chicago Cubs shortstop Dansby Swanson could make a return to the team’s lineup within a week, according to manager Craig Counsell. This update comes ahead of the Cubs’ matchup against the Pittsburgh Pirates.
Swanson’s Recovery Progress
Swanson was placed on the injured list on August 17 following a left oblique strain he sustained during a game against the St. Louis Cardinals. At the time of the injury, it was anticipated that he would be sidelined for a period of four weeks.
Manager Counsell reported that Swanson’s rehabilitation is on track, and the 32-year-old infielder is expected to participate in workouts with the team at Wrigley Field throughout the weekend series against the Pirates. If his recovery continues without complications, Swanson is scheduled to join Triple-A Iowa for rehab games on Tuesday and Wednesday, with hopes of rejoining the Cubs’ active roster by Friday, September 18, in Cincinnati.
So far this season, Swanson has played in 119 games and has a batting average of .216, contributing 18 home runs and 66 runs batted in. Defensively, he has played shortstop in 117 games with a solid fielding percentage of .987.
The injury occurred when Swanson twisted awkwardly while attempting to swing at a high fastball from Hunter Dobbins during the third inning of the game against the Cardinals. Following the incident, Swanson spoke with Counsell and the team’s training staff before leaving the game. He later remarked that he had never experienced a soft tissue injury in his professional career.
In Swanson’s absence, Nico Hoerner, a two-time Gold Glove winner at second base, has stepped in to play shortstop.
Why It Matters
Swanson’s potential return is significant as the Cubs strive to maintain their competitive position in the league. His experience and performance on the field are pivotal for the team’s success as they head into the late stages of the season.
