Cubs dealt major blow as Dansby Swanson hits injured list

Chicago Cubs shortstop Dansby Swanson. IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect

Cubs dealt major blow as Dansby Swanson hits injured list

By Andrew Wright | Last updated Aug 16, 2026 7:32 PM ET

Despite a lack of offensive production this season, the impact that Dansby Swanson has on the Chicago Cubs cannot be overstated.

Swanson has consistently played outstanding defense this season and his veteran leadership has been extraordinarily valuable. Chicago will be without Swanson for a while, though, as he'll be headed to the injured list.

Dansby Swanson has an oblique injury

Swanson exited Sunday's game after an awkward swing and the worst-case scenario has now come to fruition. According to Cubs manager Craig Counsell, Swanson will be placed on the injured list with an oblique injury.

Counsell told media members that the severity of the issue was unknown and that Swanson would undergo further imaging on Monday.

Dansby Swanson will go on the IL with left oblique discomfort, per Craig Counsell. pic.twitter.com/02mV2V9v9t
— Marquee Sports Network (@WatchMarquee) August 16, 2026

Dansby Swanson has struggled offensively

Swanson is having the worst offensive season of his career, as he is slashing just .216/.300/.404 with 16 doubles, 18 home runs and 66 RBI.

If not for Swanson's 15-RBI series against the New York Mets and three-home-run performance against the San Diego Padres, those offensive numbers would be much worse.

The impact goes far beyond offense

Swanson's impact on the game goes far beyond his offensive production, though. He has continuously been among the best defensive shortstops in the league and that has continued this season.

Swanson ranks second in the National League and fourth among shortstops in fielding run value this season. He's also played the third-most innings at shortstop this season, trailing only Geraldo Perdomo and Otto Lopez.

DANSBY THE FREAKING MANSBY. pic.twitter.com/ZusyKNKI5T
— Chicago Cubs (@Cubs) October 2, 2025

Chicago Cubs are fortunate to have an excellent replacement

Most teams would scramble to find a replacement for their Gold Glove-caliber shortstop, but that won't be a problem for Chicago.

It'll be Gold Glove winner Nico Hoerner who shifts from second base to shortstop, the position he played from 2020-2022 before the arrival of Swanson. Hoerner is an outstanding defender and is fifth among second basemen in fielding run value this season.

Swanson's presence will certainly be sorely missed but Hoerner should be able to hold his own while Swanson recovers and gears up for the postseason.

Andrew Wright

Andrew "Dew" Wright graduated from Charleston Southern University with a degree in Communication Studies. He is a lifelong Chicago Cubs and Washington Commanders fan.

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