Cubs Make Nico Hoerner Move After Dansby Swanson's Exit From Lineup

The Chicago Cubs made a notable infield adjustment Saturday, moving Gold Glove second baseman Nico Hoerner to shortstop after Dansby Swanson was left out of the starting lineup against the St. Louis Cardinals.

Hoerner's move opens second base for minor league call-up Pedro Ramírez while allowing Chicago to give Swanson a day off. The change gives manager Craig Counsell a way to preserve his middle-infield defense without significantly changing the team's overall structure.

Hoerner entered the game batting .262 with seven home runs, 56 RBIs and 20 stolen bases across 120 games this season.

The defensive switch also gives Ramírez an opportunity to contribute at second base. The switch-hitter provided an early offensive spark with a second-inning double as Chicago looked to generate momentum against Cardinals starter Michael McGreevy.

Swanson remains available off the bench, making the move primarily a rest decision rather than an indication of an injury or longer-term lineup change.

The Cubs entered Saturday at 72-51, sitting second in the National League Central and three games behind the Milwaukee Brewers. Chicago also held a 7.5-game advantage in the NL Wild Card race.

The Cardinals, meanwhile, entered the matchup at 61-61 and 13.5 games behind Milwaukee. The division gap makes every game between the two Central rivals important for Chicago as it continues chasing the Brewers.

Hoerner's ability to move between the middle-infield positions gives Counsell additional flexibility during the final weeks of the regular season. Keeping his defense intact while resting Swanson could prove valuable as the Cubs manage their roster through the stretch run.

For Ramírez, the start represents another chance to establish himself as useful depth. His performance could become increasingly important if Chicago needs additional coverage in the infield down the stretch.

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