Dansby Swanson's journey with the Chicago Cubs has been a mix of defensive brilliance and offensive challenges since he inked that seven-year, $177 million deal in 2023. While his glove has been a game-changer-key to securing the NL Wild Card last year-his bat hasn't quite lived up to expectations.
His standout offensive season on the North Side was a modest 105 wRC+ in his debut year. The 2025 season was particularly tough, with Swanson posting a .244/.300/.417 slash line and a 99 wRC+.
For a team with championship aspirations, more was needed from him at the plate.
Swanson's struggles have been apparent, especially with a concerning 7.3% walk rate and a 26% strikeout rate, both among the worst of his career. His performance with runners in scoring position was a mere .204/.272/.362, translating to a 74 wRC+.
In high-pressure situations, he ranked as the 12th-worst hitter in the league, with a 48 wRC+. Despite hitting 24 home runs, his highest as a Cub, the overall offensive output left much to be desired.
Acknowledging these struggles, Swanson and hitting coach Dustin Kelly are working to revitalize his offensive game. The focus isn't on a complete mechanical overhaul but on keeping Swanson athletic and fluid at the plate.
Kelly emphasizes the need for Swanson to maintain movement and flow, similar to his approach in the field. This means refining his setup, leg kick, and swing to avoid the disastrous slumps like those experienced last year, particularly in March, April, and July when his strikeout rate soared to 32.7%.
A positive sign for Swanson is his full health this offseason. After undergoing core surgery post-2024, he's now unencumbered in his training, allowing him to address past issues more effectively.
However, Cubs fans should temper expectations. While offseason changes often bring optimism, the true test will be Swanson's performance in actual games.
At 32, some decline is natural, but his elite defensive skills ensure his continued value to the Cubs. Even with an average bat, he's delivered two seasons with over 4 fWAR and a 3.3 fWAR last year.
A return to a 110 wRC+, reminiscent of his peak years with the Braves, would be a welcome boost to an already strong lineup.
Projections like ZiPS and Steamer suggest Swanson's 2026 might mirror his 2025 performance. Yet, there's hope that these adjustments can help him surpass expectations and, as Cubs President Jed Hoyer might say, "beat the projections."