Bregman and Swanson Reunite on Cubs, Bringing Decade-Long Friendship and Rivalry

The two star infielders, who were first and second overall picks in the 2015 MLB Draft, are now teammates again in Chicago.

Apr. 13, 2026 at 12:38am

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A fractured, cubist-style painting depicting the action of a baseball game or match, with the players' forms broken down into sharp, overlapping geometric shapes and planes in a vibrant color palette, conveying the dynamic energy and contrast of the two star players' reunion.The reunion of star infielders Bregman and Swanson on the Cubs promises an intriguing blend of contrasting hitting styles and a decade-long friendship.Chicago Today

Alex Bregman and Dansby Swanson, two veteran MLB players with a shared passion for hitting, have reunited on the Chicago Cubs after years of parallel careers and a long-standing friendship dating back to their college days. The two stars, who were first and second overall picks in the 2015 MLB Draft, have taken very different approaches to their craft, with Bregman being a meticulous analyst and Swanson seeking a consistent feeling, but they are excited to team up once again and lead the Cubs to glory.

Why it matters

Bregman and Swanson's reunion on the Cubs is a fascinating story of two talented players whose paths have intertwined over the past decade. Their contrasting hitting styles and strong bond showcase the power of teamwork and shared experiences in driving success, making their partnership a key storyline for the Cubs as they aim to make a deep playoff run.

The details

Bregman and Swanson first crossed paths in 2015 when they were selected first and second overall in the MLB Draft, respectively. They debuted the following year and even played together on the 2014 USA Baseball collegiate national team, an experience Bregman called 'incredible.' Now, after years of facing off as rivals, the two infielders are reunited in Chicago after Bregman signed a lucrative free agent deal with the Cubs, joining his longtime friend Swanson.

  • Bregman and Swanson were first and second overall picks in the 2015 MLB Draft.
  • They debuted in the MLB together in 2016 and played on the 2014 USA Baseball collegiate national team.
  • Bregman signed a free agent deal with the Cubs in 2026, reuniting him with Swanson.

The players

Alex Bregman

A veteran MLB player known for his meticulous analytical approach to hitting mechanics.

Dansby Swanson

A veteran MLB player who seeks a consistent feeling at the plate, providing a contrasting style to Bregman's.

Chicago Cubs

The MLB team that Bregman and Swanson now play for, as the two stars aim to lead the team to a deep playoff run.

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What they’re saying

“We are very similar and different. That's what makes it so cool.”

— Dansby Swanson

“It's one of those memories you'll never forget. Competing for your country is an incredible experience.”

— Alex Bregman

“It's great playing up the middle with a superstar like Dansby. I'm excited to share the infield with him once more.”

— Alex Bregman

“He's going to be a great asset for me. Our conversations and understanding of each other will be immensely helpful.”

— Dansby Swanson

What’s next

The Cubs will be closely watched as Bregman and Swanson look to lead the team to a deep playoff run, with their contrasting hitting styles and long-standing friendship serving as a key storyline throughout the season.

The takeaway

Bregman and Swanson's reunion on the Cubs showcases the power of teamwork and shared experiences in driving success, as the two veteran players with a decade-long history look to combine their unique talents and approaches to help the team achieve its goals.