Dansby Swanson's Savvy Fake Tag Seals Wild Cubs Win Over Diamondbacks

Game-Ending Play: With two outs and runners on first and second in the bottom of the ninth, Diamondbacks' Corbin Carroll hit a slow chopper (46 mph off the bat). Swanson fielded it, realizing he couldn't throw out the speedy Carroll at first.

Swanson's Savvy Move: He faked the throw to first, inducing pinch-runner Garrett Hampson to take too wide a turn around third base. Swanson then sprinted towards third and tagged out a diving Hampson to end the game.

Why This Matters: This play highlights the importance of defensive awareness and baseball IQ. Swanson's experience and instincts prevented a potential blown save and secured a crucial win for the Cubs, showcasing how games can be won through smart defense, not just offense. His manager, Craig Counsell, described it as "experienced, instinctual, athletic."

Offensive Contributions: Kyle Tucker hit his first home run as a Cub (a two-run shot), contributing three hits overall. Rookie Matt Shaw also hit his first career home run in a pinch-hit appearance, which ultimately provided the winning margin.

Strong Starting Pitching: Shota Imanaga delivered a quality start, pitching seven innings while allowing only one run on three hits and two walks, striking out four.

Ninth Inning Drama: Closer Ryan Pressly allowed a two-run homer to Eugenio Suárez earlier in the ninth, tightening the score to 4-3 and setting the stage for the final tense moments.

Q: How did Dansby Swanson get the final out?

A: He fielded a slow grounder, faked a throw to first base, and tagged out runner Garrett Hampson who had rounded third base too aggressively.

Q: Who hit home runs for the Cubs?

A: Kyle Tucker hit his first home run as a Cub (a 2-run shot), and rookie Matt Shaw hit his first career MLB home run (a solo shot).

Q: How did Cubs starter Shota Imanaga perform?

A: Imanaga pitched very well, going 7 innings and allowing only 1 run on 3 hits and 2 walks, earning the win.

Defense Wins Championships: Swanson's play is a perfect example of how game-changing moments aren't limited to hitting home runs. Heads-up defense and baseball intelligence are critical.

Preparation Pays Off: Swanson credited drills and visualization from his college career for being ready for such an unusual situation.

Key Contributions: While Swanson sealed the win, contributions from Imanaga, Tucker, and Shaw were essential in putting the Cubs in a position to win.

Never Give Up on a Play: Even when the standard out seems impossible, creative thinking can lead to unexpected positive outcomes.

Source 1: Wide turn at third makes for a wild finish for Cubs, D-backs