Dansby Swanson has been grappling with a frustrating play for some time now.
During the game, he hit a chopper and seemingly beat the throw to first base. It looked like he would score a tying run, but then things took a turn. The play was challenged, and what had started as excitement quickly shifted to disappointment. Video reviews indicated that he hadn’t stepped on the bag in time, ultimately nullifying the run.
The Cubs, unfortunately, couldn’t bounce back from a one-run deficit, losing 3-2 to the Reds and falling three games behind the Brewers in the NL Central.
“I felt like I was close,” Swanson said, reflecting on the play. “But the replay? Well, that showed a different story.” He seemed uncertain, adding, “I thought I touched it at some point, but I can’t say for sure.” It was, he remarked, a tough break.
If Swanson had been ruled safe, it would have marked a significant moment for the Cubs, as they were looking to erase an earlier lead by the Reds.
He had initially helped the Cubs by hitting a two-run homer, which was his 17th of the season, giving them the lead for a brief moment.
In a twist, Elly de La Cruz responded with a double that tied the game, and then TJ Friedl’s single in the seventh allowed the Reds to regain the lead.
Currently, the Cubs hold the top wild card spot in the NL at 65-47, while the Reds sit at 59-54, trailing the Padres for the last wild card position.
