Report: Phillies, Cubs among teams pursuing Swanson

The market for Dansby Swanson is beginning to take shape ahead of baseball's winter meetings.

The Philadelphia Phillies are one of several teams with interest in the free-agent shortstop, sources told Jon Morosi of MLB.com. Philadelphia's competition includes the Chicago Cubs, Morosi added.

Philadelphia is looking for middle-infield upgrades this offseason. While the reigning National League champions are apparently among the favorites for another star free agent in Trea Turner, Swanson also fits the bill as a dependable two-way shortstop. His bat would also play well in the middle of a Phillies lineup that will be without Bryce Harper for at least the first half of 2023.

Signing Swanson would also come with the added benefit of poaching him from the rival Atlanta Braves. He's consistently tortured Phillies pitching during their NL East battles with Atlanta to the tune of a .810 OPS and 12 home runs in 97 games.

The Cubs, meanwhile, continue to pursue Swanson after reportedly talking to his representatives last month. His leadership and championship pedigree would be welcome on a young Chicago team, as would his power from the left side that could help balance a predominantly right-handed hitting lineup.

The 28-year-old is coming off his first career All-Star campaign, hitting .277/.329/.447 with 25 homers, 96 RBIs, and 18 stolen bases while playing in all 162 games for the Braves.