CINCINNATI -- Two days after completing simulated game-like activities at Wrigley Field, Cubs shortstop Dansby Swanson was activated from the 10-day injured list and started ninth in the lineup against the Reds on Friday night at Great American Ball Park.
Swanson missed 28 games because of a left oblique strain. At the time of the injury, Swanson was slashing .216/.300/.404 with 18 homers and 66 RBIs. Since June 17, he has a .270 batting average (47-for-174) with 38 RBIs and an .860 OPS.
“Since that time frame, I felt really good and figured some things out as far as what is going to work for me offensively -- hopefully for the rest of my career,” he said.
Swanson’s return means Nico Hoerner goes from shortstop to his original position at second base, while Pedro Ramírez -- who played regularly at second during Swanson’s absence -- returns to the bench.
“It’s been a long time, so I’m really grateful to be back and contribute to this team and to achieve, obviously, something special [like winning the World Series],” Swanson said. “The medical staff and everyone involved with this entire process did all they can to get me back as soon as possible, which I’m grateful for.”
With Swanson added to the active roster, the Cubs optioned first baseman BJ Murray Jr. to Triple-A Iowa. In seven games for Chicago, Murray went 1-for-11.