Cubs’ Dansby Swanson nearing return amid playoff push

The Chicago Cubs are attempting to officially clinch their spot in the postseason. Soon, they should be getting some extra lineup reinforcements to aid that push.

Shortstop Dansby Swanson is expected to be activated from the injured list for next weekend’s series against the Cincinnati Reds, via Patrick Mooney of the Athletic. He’ll first need to go through a rehab assignment, but Swanson should be back in the majors sooner rather than later.

“The Cubs are planning to activate Dansby Swanson (oblique) for next weekend’s series in Cincinnati, Cubs manager Craig Counsell said today at Wrigley Field, after the Gold Glove shortstop completes a short rehab assignment with Triple-A Iowa,” Mooney wrote.

Swanson has been out since mid-August with a left oblique strain. The Cubs are going to be cautious, as the last thing they want is a setback. His rehab assignment will allow him to shake any rust off. But Chicago knows they’re a stronger contender with Swanson at shortstop.

Cubs soon welcoming Dansby Swanson back to lineup

Prior to suffering his oblique injury, Swanson hit .216 with 18 home runs, 66 RBIs and 17 stolen bases over his first 119 games of the season. While his batting average leaves a lot to be desired, Swanson is still top five on the team in home runs and RBIs, ranking third in stolen bases.

If he manages to reach the 20/20 plateau, it would be for the second year in a row. He has at least 15 home runs every season since 2021 with a minimum of 66 RBIs in that span. The Cubs will want him to find a bit more consistency at the plate, but his production has and will be crucial to their success. And that’s not even mentioning the defense he provides at shortstop.

Swanson will need to make it through his rehab assignment healthy. But if no setbacks occur, he’ll soon be a crucial part of Chicago’s playoff push once again.

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