Dansby Swanson launched three home runs and drove in eight runs as the Chicago Cubs demolished the San Diego Padres 23-3 on Wednesday. The shortstop's grand slam in the eighth inning came off a 43 mph eephus pitch from catcher Rodolfo Duran, capping a remarkable individual performance that included a historic feat for a No. 9 hitter.

Swanson became just the fourth player in MLB history to record eight or more RBIs in a game, joining Hall of Famers including Sammy Sosa. His 26 RBIs over the past 10 games tie him with legends like Joe DiMaggio and Lou Gehrig for the most in any 10-game span. The Cubs also hit eight homers as a team, matching their franchise record from last July.

This offensive explosion came after Swanson endured his worst slump, with his batting average falling well below .200. Working with hitting coach John Mallee, the 32-year-old credited his willingness to keep learning for the turnaround. He became the first Cubs shortstop since 1900 with consecutive multi-home run games.

The blowout secured a three-game sweep of the Padres and highlighted Chicago's offensive surge. Manager Craig Counsell noted that baseball remains unpredictable, with players capable of emerging from their worst stretches into their best performances overnight.