New Delhi, Aug. 17 -- Chicago Cubs shortstop Dansby Swanson left Sunday's game against the St. Louis Cardinals after feeling discomfort on his first swing of the afternoon. The veteran exited in the bottom of the third inning at Wrigley Field, raising immediate concern for a team fighting to stay in the National League Central race.

Dansby Swanson stepped in for his first at-bat of the day and swung through the opening pitch. He immediately showed clear pain, grimaced, and tossed his helmet before walking off the field with a trainer. The Chicago Cubs later described the issue as "left side discomfort."

James Triantos entered as a pinch-hitter and drew a walk. In the top of the fourth, Nico Hoerner moved over to shortstop while Triantos...