Cubs shortstop Dansby Swanson and USWNT star Mallory Pugh tie the knot
Oct, 12 2025
When Dansby Swanson, shortstop for Chicago Cubs announced his marriage to Mallory Pugh Swanson, striker for the Chicago Red Stars and the United States Women’s National Team, fans everywhere breathed a sigh of relief. The power couple now balances two grueling professional calendars while raising a family in the Windy City, a juggling act that has sparked headlines from baseball diamonds to soccer pitches.
How a blind date turned into a Chicago sports saga
The romance began on a chilly December evening in 2017, when former Braves teammate Jace Peterson set up a blind coffee‑shop date. Peterson, married to Mallory’s sister Brianna, thought the low‑key setting would let the two athletes "just talk"—and it worked. Within weeks, they were inseparable, but kept the relationship under wraps for a full year, fearing media frenzy.
On December 13, 2018, Mallory leaked the secret with a simple Instagram post: a holiday selfie and a black heart emoji. Social feeds lit up, and the couple finally emerged from the shadows.
Championships, injuries, and the battle beyond the field
2021 was a milestone year. World Series 2021 Atlanta saw the Atlanta Braves clinch the title, with Dansby delivering clutch hits after star Ronald Acuña Jr. went down with an injury. The victory felt extra sweet; it came just after the pair got engaged.
Meanwhile, Mallory fought a series of hamstring setbacks that threatened her 2020 Olympic dream. She rebounded, earning a spot on the USWNT roster for the Paris 2024 Olympics—another event Paris 2024 Olympics Paris—and adding a silver medal to her collection.
Both athletes have been openly honest about mental health. In an April 23, 2025 interview on the "Diggin' Deep" podcast, Dansby described how Mallory’s steady faith helped him pull through his own depression episodes. Mallory echoed that sentiment, saying their shared belief system acts like a "lifeline" during long road trips and rehab sessions.
The December 2022 "enchanted forest" wedding
On December 10, 2022, the couple exchanged vows in Greensboro, Georgia. The ceremony, themed as an "enchanted forest," featured fairy‑light arches and a live acoustic set that blended baseball chants with soccer chants—an odd but charming mash‑up that surprised even their closest friends.
Guests included fellow Cubs star Freddie Freeman, USWNT midfielder Alex Morgan, and several Vanderbilt alumni who recalled the relentless, military‑style training they endured under Coach Tim Corbin.
Balancing two pro seasons: A logistical nightmare?
Baseball runs from late March to early October, while the NWSL season stretches from March to November, with international windows sprinkled throughout. When Mallory’s USWNT duties call for travel to Europe or South America, the couple often spends weeks apart, relying on FaceTime and nightly prayers.
Yet the pair has turned those challenges into opportunities. They’ve launched a joint YouTube channel where Dansby breaks down swing mechanics and Mallory shares quick‑fire shooting drills—content that draws thousands of aspiring athletes each week.
- 2023: Dansby hit a career‑high 28 home runs for the Cubs.
- 2024: Mallory logged 12 goals and 5 assists in the NWSL season.
- 2025: Both appeared on the "Diggin' Deep" podcast to discuss mental health.
Looking ahead: A foundation and beyond
Sources close to the couple say they are planning to launch the "Swanson‑Pugh Foundation" in early 2026. While details remain under wraps, the foundation is expected to focus on youth mental‑health programs and sports access for underprivileged communities—a cause both athletes have championed in the past.
For now, fans can expect Dansby to keep mentoring younger Cubs prospects, while Mallory gears up for the next World Cup cycle. Their shared faith, relentless work ethic, and mutual respect suggest they’ll stay at the top of their games for years to come.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does their marriage affect their performance on the field?
Both athletes say the partnership provides emotional stability that translates to confidence on the field. Dansby credits Mallory’s encouragement for his recent surge in power hitting, while Mallory notes that Dansby’s calm presence helps her stay focused during high‑pressure matches.
What charitable work are they planning?
The upcoming Swanson‑Pugh Foundation aims to fund mental‑health counseling and provide sports equipment to low‑income youth in Chicago and Atlanta. Early talks suggest partnerships with local schools and community centers.
When can fans expect to see them together at events?
They often appear together during Chicago charity games in the off‑season, typically in January and February. Their joint YouTube videos also drop weekly, giving fans a regular glimpse into their life.
How do they manage travel schedules when both have national team duties?
They coordinate around international windows, often meeting in neutral cities like Dallas or Denver. When one is overseas, the other keeps a close watch through video calls, and they synchronize training regimens to stay aligned.
What impact does their story have on young athletes?
Their openness about mental health and faith resonates with aspiring players nationwide. Schools across Illinois have reported increased attendance at their speaking events, citing the couple’s authenticity as a key motivator.