The Chicago Cubs are optimistic about shortstop Dansby Swanson’s return to the lineup before the season concludes. Swanson recently went on the 10-day injured list due to a left oblique strain detected by an MRI, which forced him to leave Sunday’s game. Alongside this, the Cubs placed right-hander Edward Cabrera on the 15-day IL because of a right middle finger blister. In response, they called up Javier Assad, Kevin Alcántara, and Owen Miller, while optioning James Triantos. Daniel Palencia was shifted to the 60-day IL, yet this does not alter his expected return timeline, as he has been on the IL since June 16.
The team anticipates Swanson missing one month, aligning his comeback with two weeks remaining in the schedule. This marks Swanson’s first stint on the IL since 2024 when he was sidelined by a right knee sprain. “Dansby is already ready to tackle the injury and expedite the healing process,” manager Craig Counsell mentioned.
I don’t know if there’s any silver lining to this, but we’ll get Dansby back this year.
With Swanson out, Nico Hoerner will cover shortstop alongside Pedro Ramírez at second base. Matt Shaw is also expected back soon from a left hand/wrist sprain, contingent on his pregame performance before starting his rehab assignment at Triple-A Iowa. Miller steps in as a backup shortstop with additional first base experience. This versatility influenced the decision to promote Miller and replace Triantos.
Ramírez will experience more playing time, having shown promise in 49 games with a .299 average, a .353 on-base percentage, and a 120 OPS+.
Pedro’s a good player, bottom line,” Counsell affirmed, “He’s more than ready for this.
Cabrera’s first season with the Cubs has not unfolded as anticipated following the trade with the Miami Marlins. He is on the IL for the third time, facing blister issues for the second time. Counsell plans for Cabrera to return in a relief role to mitigate blister risks, based on prior bullpen success without such issues. The blister flared up following Cabrera’s start on August 11 at Double-A, and again on Sunday.
We’ve got to come up with some better answers on the blisters thing,
Counsell admitted this is a challenge, considering the possibility that longer outings might exacerbate the condition. Over 15 starts, Cabrera has achieved a 5.68 ERA and a 72 ERA+ with the lowest strikeout rate of his career. Though not meeting expectations, Cabrera remains committed to contributing from the bullpen, focusing on aiding the team’s success. Despite frustration, Cabrera emphasizes resilience amid adversity.
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