THE “CUBS WAY” DEBATE: Craig Counsell Explains Why Dansby Swanson Was the $177 Million Exception.vc

The Chicago Cubs are at the center of a heated analytical debate today as manager Craig Counsell offered a “candid analysis” on the team’s selective spending habits. While the “shocking $700 million” figure circulating on some social feeds is a significant exaggeration—Dansby Swanson’s actual contract is $177,000,000 over seven years—the core of the conversation remains: Why did the Cubs commit to Swanson while “refusing to spend” on other global superstars like Juan Soto?

In a series of end-of-year reflections following the Cubs’ 2025 NLDS appearance, Counsell identified three key factors that make Swanson the “blueprint” for the North Side, contrasting his value against more traditional power-hitting superstars.

The Three Factors of the Swanson Standard

• 1. The “Race to 27 Outs” (Elite Defense): Counsell has repeatedly emphasized that the Cubs’ strategy is built on run prevention. “It’s a race to 27 outs,” Counsell noted. Swanson’s Gold Glove defense at shortstop is the engine of the Cubs’ infield, allowing pitchers to be aggressive knowing they have a “safety net.” This differs from a player like Soto, whose value is almost entirely offensive.
• 2. Durability as a Skill: Since 2020, Swanson has played in more games (over 750) than almost any other player in MLB. For a front office that values “predictable production,” Swanson’s ability to post every single day provides a stability that the Cubs are hesitant to gamble on with high-priced stars who have more volatile injury histories.
• 3. The “Coach” in the Clubhouse: Teammates affectionately refer to Swanson as “Coach” because of his leadership and chemistry-building. Following the 2025 season, Counsell highlighted that this “humanity beyond the box score” is worth a premium to the Cubs, who are focused on building a “connected” culture rather than just a collection of talent.

Reality Check: The “700 Million” Myth

While social media headlines have claimed the Cubs spent “$700 million on Swanson,” official records confirm:

• Total Contract: $177,000,000
• 2026 Salary: $27,000,000
• Duration: Through the 2029 season.

The confusion likely stems from the total value of the Shohei Ohtani contract ($700M), which has become a benchmark for “superstar spending” that the Cubs have notably avoided. By choosing Swanson over a Soto-level megadeal, the Cubs are signaling that their “Winning Beyond the Box Score” philosophy prioritizes defense and leadership over raw hitting statistics.