Cubs announce plans for return of Dansby Swanson

Chicago Cubs shortstop Dansby Swanson. IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect

Cubs announce plans for return of Dansby Swanson

By Andrew Wright | Last updated Sep 11, 2026 1:58 PM ET

Despite a lack of offensive production this season, the Chicago Cubs have sorely missed the presence of Gold Glove shortstop Dansby Swanson.

Swanson has been out of action since Aug. 16 after suffering an oblique injury while taking a swing at the plate. Chicago has gone 9-13 in Swanson's absence, and the production for what has been one of the best defensive teams of all-time has taken a bit of hit.

That is expected to change soon, though, as Cubs manager Craig Counsell spoke Friday and revealed the plans for Swanson's return.

Dansby Swanson is expected to be activated ahead of series in Cincinnati

According to Counsell, Swanson is expected to report to Triple-A Iowa in the coming days for a rehab assignment before being activated next weekend against the Cincinnati Reds.

Swanson was spotted taking batting practice on Wednesday in Milwaukee, a good sign that he was back to normal baseball activities and feeling good about his return.

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.
— Patrick Mooney (@PJ_Mooney) September 11, 2026

Dansby Swanson took batting practice this afternoon at American Family Field pic.twitter.com/hjjWrI7HCA
— Marquee Sports Network (@WatchMarquee) September 9, 2026

Can Dansby Swanson provide a little more offense when he returns?

When Swanson returns to the Chicago lineup, he'll do so with a slash line of .216/.300/.404. Those numbers would by far be the worst of his career, but they're a bit overlooked sometimes due to the outstanding defense Swanson provides on a yearly basis.

The Cubs don't need Swanson to put up MVP-caliber numbers, but over 30 points under his .248 career average also isn't getting the job done. He can be an influential and key part of making one of the best lineups in baseball even deeper.

A better performing Swanson at the plate could be exactly what the Cubs need for the postseason as they try to advance past the NLDS for the first time since 2017.

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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