What happened: The Cubs are spotlighting shortstop Dansby Swanson amid a stretch of strong offensive production. Chicago flagged the run with a "heat check" nod to how well he is squaring up the ball at the plate.

Why it matters: A locked-in Swanson lengthens the Cubs' lineup and gives Chicago a middle-of-the-order threat beyond its usual run producers. Getting steady offense from the shortstop position matters as the club fights to hold its footing in a tight National League Central race.

What to watch: Watch whether Swanson can sustain the surge over the coming series and keep driving in runs as the Cubs navigate their July schedule.