Chicago Cubs shortstop Dansby Swanson has urged his teammates to rely on their core strengths as the team faces postseason elimination. The Cubs play Game 2 of the National League Wild Card Series against the San Diego Padres at Petco Park on Wednesday night.
The urgency comes after an 8-0 shutout loss to San Diego in Game 1 on Tuesday. During the opener, the Padres stifled the Chicago offense, limiting the team to three hits while striking out 10 batters. The Cubs also struggled to capitalize on opportunities, finishing 0-for-4 with runners in scoring position.
Swanson Emphasizes Mental Resilience
Speaking to the media ahead of the must-win contest, Swanson stressed that maintaining mental discipline and returning to the foundational elements that fueled their 89-73 regular-season campaign will be vital. The veteran infielder noted that dwelling on the Game 1 blowout offers no benefit as the club prepares to stave off elimination.
“We just have to stick to what we do best, stay within ourselves, and take it one pitch at a time,” Swanson indicated as the team regrouped in Southern California.
Looking Ahead to Game 2 Adjustments
Manager Craig Counsell and the Cubs coaching staff face steep pressure to jumpstart an offense that was quieted by the Padres’ pitching staff. Following Matthew Boyd’s tough outing in Game 1, the Cubs turn to their pitching depth and lineup adjustments to level the best-of-three series.
First pitch for Game 2 is scheduled for Wednesday night at Petco Park, where the Cubs will fight to force a decisive Game 3 and keep their 2026 championship aspirations alive.
