Looking at the tape, Dansby Swanson’s throwing error on May 22 gave the Astros a free base and forced Chicago to scramble. The miscue came after a sequence that had Swanson on first, Crow-Armstrong on second and Kelly on third, highlighting how a single lapse can unravel a tight spot.
The play unfolded when Swanson fielded a grounder and attempted a deep throw, only to see the ball sail past shortstop Jeremy Peña for an error. The error let Swanson reach safely, moving Pete Crow‑Armstrong to second and resetting the Cubs’ base‑running pressure. Earlier, Swanson had also been out at second on a force play, underscoring a night of mixed defensive outcomes. Isaac Paredes later grounded out sharply to Swanson at first, showing the Cubs’ infield was otherwise handling chances cleanly.
Based on available data, the numbers suggest Swanson’s errant throw could prompt a reevaluation of late‑inning positioning. The Cubs may look to tighten their defensive communication as the series progresses.
For complete coverage, see Isaac Paredes’ Defensive Play Fuels Cubs Momentum in Late Innings.
