The Chicago Cubs are currently receiving one of the worst returns on investment in baseball from shortstop Dansby Swanson’s \$177 million contract signed in December 2022—not \$275 million as some rumors have exaggerated. While Swanson was brought in for his defensive prowess and leadership, his offensive production has severely underwhelmed in 2024. He’s struggled at the plate with a subpar batting average and declining power numbers, making it difficult to justify the hefty price tag, especially with six years still remaining on the deal.
In a league where elite shortstops are expected to contribute on both sides of the ball, Swanson’s inconsistency at the plate is holding the Cubs back. Injuries have also limited his availability, further decreasing his value. When factoring in both his salary and performance metrics like WAR (Wins Above Replacement), the Cubs are paying elite money for middle-tier production.
The frustration is amplified by the team’s middling performance and the emergence of young, cost-effective talent elsewhere in the league. With payroll flexibility impacted, the Swanson deal is becoming a major obstacle in Chicago’s attempt to return to postseason contention. Unless his offensive numbers rebound significantly, this contract could haunt the franchise for years to c
ome.
