Nick Swanson joined the Santa Clara Cardinals in Fall 2023 and has since developed into one of the most reliable arms in franchise history. A durable right-hander with a deceptive submarine-style delivery, Swanson brings a calm, methodical presence to the mound and a team-first mentality that has made him a trusted leader within the clubhouse.

Known for his command, composure, and ability to generate weak contact, Swanson has anchored the Cardinals’ pitching staff across multiple seasons. His willingness to take the ball in big moments—whether as a starter or in relief—has consistently set the tone for a pitching-centric Cardinals identity.

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Career Overview

Across 18 pitching appearances (11 starts), Swanson owns a 3–4 record, 2.84 ERA, and 61 strikeouts over 73 innings, ranking among the Cardinals’ career leaders in innings pitched, strikeouts, and starts. His 1.48 WHIP reflects his ability to limit damage and work deep into games despite facing heavy workloads.

At the plate, Swanson has contributed valuable depth as a two-way player, appearing in 43 career games and posting a .360 on-base percentage with 15 RBIs, 15 walks, and 8 stolen bases. While pitching remains his primary role, his situational hitting and baserunning awareness have added flexibility to the lineup.

Defensively, Swanson has logged time in both corner outfield spots in addition to the mound, showcasing adaptability and athleticism while filling whatever role the team needs.

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Fall 2025

During Fall 2025, Swanson continued to provide stability on both sides of the ball. On the mound, he appeared in three games (one start), working 7 innings while allowing just 2 earned runs, good for a 2.57 ERA—one of the lowest ERAs on the team for the fall season. He also recorded a save, finishing with a 1.29 WHIP and holding opponents to a .310 average, reinforcing his reliability in high-leverage situations.

Offensively, Swanson delivered timely production from the lower half of the order, batting .190 with a .393 OBP, 6 RBIs, 2 stolen bases, and a triple. His on-base percentage ranked among the top marks on the team, and his ability to draw walks and take extra bases consistently helped extend innings during key stretches of the season.

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Summer 2025 (All-Star Season)

Swanson’s Summer 2025 campaign stands as one of the most dominant pitching seasons in Cardinals history. Across 9 appearances (7 starts), he logged 48.1 innings with a 2.05 ERA, 41 strikeouts, and a 1.45 WHIP, leading the team in innings pitched and strikeouts while posting the lowest Summer-season ERA in franchise history.

His performance earned All-Star honors and placed him firmly in the Pitcher of the Year conversation, as he consistently matched up against top lineups and delivered quality starts. His ability to control games with tempo, movement, and command established him as the Cardinals’ unquestioned ace.

At the plate, Swanson added 12 hits, 7 RBIs, and 4 stolen bases over 15 games, continuing to provide value as a two-way contributor.

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Fall 2024

In Fall 2024, Swanson took another step forward as a two-way presence. He hit .308 with 8 runs scored and 7 walks, posting a .550 OBP that ranked among the team leaders. On the mound, he logged 14 innings and 12 strikeouts, gaining valuable experience against stronger competition while refining his approach.

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Summer 2024

A shorter but important season, Summer 2024 served as a developmental turning point. Swanson returned to the mound for 3.2 scoreless innings, flashing improved command and confidence. Offensively, he chipped in with two hits and a .444 slugging percentage, building momentum that carried into his breakout 2025 seasons.

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Fall 2023 (Rookie Season)

Swanson made his Cardinals debut in Fall 2023, immediately drawing attention for his unique submarine delivery and poise on the mound. While his offensive opportunities were limited, the foundation was laid for what would become a multi-year run as one of the most dependable pitchers in the organization.

Records & Honors:
🏅 D2 All-Star (Summer 2025)
🥈 Finalist – D2 Pitcher of the Year (Summer 2025)
🏆 Holds Cardinals record for lowest Summer-season ERA (2.05, Summer 2025)

 

Team-Leading Stats:

Fall 2025:

• RBI (6) (tied)
• Walks (5) (tied)
• HBP (2) (tied)
• Triples (1)

Summer 2025:

• Strikeouts (41)

• ERA (2.05)

• Complete Games (2)

• Games Started (7)

• WHIP (1.45)

• Pitching Wins (3) 

Fall 2024:

• Runs Scored (8)

• Walks (7)