With Marlins left-hander Ryan Weathers on the mound Wednesday, shortstop Dansby Swanson, a right-handed hitter, led off instead of center fielder Pete Crow-Armstrong, a left-handed hitter. It was the 41st time in Swanson’s career that he’d started in the leadoff spot, and his first as a Cub.

“He’s always been a hitter,” Cubs manager Craig Counsell said. “He’s been the youngest player on his team, still, for his whole career. And he’s always been one of the better hitters, and that’s impressive.

The Chicago Cubs closed out there past week with a 2-4 record in their two separate three game sets that they played in. They began the week at home against the Giants and the series began with plenty of promise for the group that entered the week with a comfortable lead in the NL Central.

The Cubs have needed some grinder-like performances from players who haven't been getting as much attention — until now.

Sunday’s loss dropped the series to the New York Mets, marking the first time the Chicago Cubs have lost back-to-back series this season.

The Cubs are calling up intriguing prospect Moisés Ballesteros to replace injured outfielder Ian Happ, and Eric Samulski explains why the catcher/first baseman brings major offensive potential to Chicago.