Chicago Cubs have their shortstop in Dansby Swanson

The Chicago Cubs have needed a shortstop since they traded Javier Baez.

While they were linked to shortstops during the 2021-22 offseason, particularly Carlos Correa, nothing came of those rumors. The Cubs had a starting middle infield of Nick Madrigal and Nico Hoerner to begin the 2022 season. While Hoerner performed well, Madrigal battled injuries and struggled when he was on the diamond, leaving the Cubs with that need for a shortstop once again.

Chicago Cubs finally upgrade shortstop with Dansby Swanson

This time, the Cubs found their man. According to Jeff Passan from ESPN, Dansby Swanson is heading to Chicago. Kiley McDaniel, also from ESPN, reported that Swanson received a seven year deal worth $177 million, which also includes a no-trade clause.

Swanson would certainly be an upgrade in the lineup. He produced a career best 115 OPS+ in his 696 plate appearances last season, hitting 25 homers and 32 doubles while stealing 18 bases. That type of production would fit well in a Cubs lineup that has several holes heading into next season.

This signing also provides more than his offense. Swanson and Hoerner now give the Cubs impressive defense in the middle of their infield, something that could make a tremendous difference for their pitching staff. It will be harder for those grounders to find their way into the hole for a base hit.

Swanson also sends a message to the fanbase. The Cubs had been saying that they were not interested in rebuilding, referring to this period as a matter of ‘reloading.’ However, they had not found that success in the standings. Bringing Swanson in, along with the upgrades from the past two offseasons, might be enough for the Cubs to contend once more.

The Chicago Cubs have needed a shortstop for the past two offseasons. They finally found their man as they signed Dansby Swanson.