Despite their active three-game losing streak, the Chicago Cubs are rolling on their way to October, looking to secure the top National League Wild Card spot over the Philadelphia Phillies.
The team currently sits half a game back of Philadelphia and in the second spot with a 3.0 game lead over the Arizona Diamondbacks. They hold an 81-65 record through 146 games.
The Cubs have been without one of their lineup staples, shortstop Dansby Swanson, since August 16th with a grade 2 left oblique strain sustained during a game against the rival St. Louis Cardinals.
It was revealed on Wednesday by Marquee Sports Network that the 32-year-old has taken another huge step towards a return. The two-time All-Star took batting practice before the second game of a crucial three-game series against the Milwaukee Brewers.
Swanson has struggled heavily at the plate when on the field this season, slashing .216/.300/.404, a .704 OPS, with 18 home runs, 66 RBI and 87 hits in 119 games.
Despite his struggles at the plate, the two-time Gold Glove award winner can still pick it at the hardest position in baseball. He ranks in the 95th percentile in Fielding Run Value along with 16 Outs Above Average per Baseball Savant.
He also ranks in the 95th percentile in Baserunning Value, stealing 17 bags this season while being caught just once.
No matter where he provides his value, getting Swanson back on the field before the postseason is a must for Chicago.
