Shortstop Dansby Swanson left Sunday's 11-4 loss to the St. Louis Cardinals due to left side discomfort after an awkward swing in the third inning, and will be placed on the injured list, according to Chicago Cubs manager Craig Counsell. The 32-year-old swung at the first pitch from Cardinals starter Hunter Dobbins and immediately felt tightness, exiting the game shortly after. Rookie James Triantos completed the at-bat with a walk, while Nico Hoerner shifted from second base to shortstop. Swanson described the injury as his left side tightening up, and an MRI is scheduled for Monday to determine the severity. The issue is suspected to be an oblique strain, which could sideline him for four to six weeks or longer. Before exiting, Swanson was batting .216 with 18 home runs and 66 RBIs. This marks his first IL stint since May 2024 and only the third since joining the Cubs in 2023.

Counsell emphasized Swanson's importance, calling him one of the better shortstops in the game and a critical defensive asset. Hoerner, 29, originally drafted as a shortstop, will likely assume the position full-time during Swanson's absence, while rookie Pedro Ramirez is expected to receive increased playing time at second base.

Swanson, a two-time Gold Glove winner in 2022 and 2023, noted he has never dealt with a soft tissue injury in his professional career. He expressed optimism about the MRI results and praised the team's depth and versatility to handle his absence.