Sources confirmed on Sunday that the Chicago Cubs are close to finalizing a seven-year, $177 million deal with free agent shortstop Dansby Swanson. This deal is expected to include a full no-trade clause.
After hitting .277 with a .776 OPS for the Atlanta Braves last season over the course of 162 games, Swanson is expected to become a key member of the Cubs’ rebuilding effort as they look to challenge for another World Series title. As the reigning Gold Glove winner with a Championship ring to his name, Swanson will be a key source of experience for the Cubs over the coming season.
The $177 million agreement for Swanson is set to be the largest deal concluded by the Cubs since 2016, when they signed outfielder Jason Heyward on an eight-year, $184 million contract.
While Swanson’s arrival in Chicago will go a long way to building the Cubs’ defensive capabilities, the team’s offense will still be in need of some repair. In addition to being in need of a left-hander, the Cubs are also in the market for a new catcher following the departure of Willson Contreras.
