Rumors are circulating about a possible trade involving Chicago Cubs second baseman. Known for his Gold Glove skills, he has played a pivotal role in the Cubs’ rebuild, especially after moving to second base following the signing of shortstop Dansby Swanson. Teams looking for a versatile infielder with strong bat-to-ball abilities might find him appealing. The Cubs, meanwhile, have a wealth of young talent poised to break into the major leagues. But what are the advantages and drawbacks of trading away their Gold Glove infielder?
Trade Rumors Surrounding Cubs Infielder
A Buzz-Worthy Trade Chip
In 2024, top baseman had his least effective hitting season out of his first three full years in the majors, with his slugging percentage standing out as a particular weak spot. His peak performance came in 2022, when he posted a .410 slugging percentage and a .737 OPS. However, he led the Cubs in doubles (35) and stolen bases (31) last season.
Aside from his exceptional bat-to-ball skills, the 27-year-old he has solidified his role as a steady presence in the middle infield alongside Dansby Swanson. Although his 3.7 WAR in 2024 didn’t quite reach All-Star status, he has averaged a solid 4.3 WAR over the past three seasons. His ability to perform well at both second base and shortstop adds to his value as a versatile, two-way player.
Some Possible Trade Contenders
Hoerner’s three-year contract, which pays him slightly less than $12 million annually, has two years left on it. Conversely, the Cubs seem to have a wealth of young talent coming up at a number of infield spots, including second base. More than anything, the team needs to acquire more slug and pitching depth. Additionally, some teams may or may not be considering trades this autumn, but they still have players available.
One possibility is a multiplayer trade with the Seattle Mariners for minor league players along with closer Andrés Muñoz and catcher Cal Raleigh. For the Mariners, Muñoz, 27, closed 22 of his 27 games. Raleigh had a.748 OPS in 2024, 34 home runs, and 100 RBI, making him a top defensive catcher. Robert Suarez, a late bloomer with the San Diego Padres, converted 36 of 42 save chances.
Third baseman Jazz Chisholm Jr. (24 HR/73 RBI/.760 OPS) and starting pitcher Nestor Cortes (162 strikeouts/39 walks/1.153 WHIP) of the New York Yankees are less likely. Tanner Bibee, a right-handed starter (12-8/3.47 ERA/1.117 WHIP), and Emmanuel Clase, a closer for the Cleveland Guardians (47 out of 50 saves/0.659 WHIP), are two further distant prospects.
Trade-Off vs. Payoff
Some of those suggestions, particularly the last group, seem unrealistic. At $4 million per year, Emmanuel Clase, 27, is arguably the best value in MLB. Meanwhile, Logan Bibee, 26, is poised to secure a significant big league contract thanks to his impressive track record and youth.
The larger issue for the Cubs is the uncertainty surrounding who would replace Hoerner. Hitting at the major league level is often one of the last skills players develop, making it a risky move at this stage of the team’s growth.
Additionally, tax implications may prompt the front office to part ways with players like Patrick Wisdom, Yency Almonte, Christian Bethancourt, Julian Merryweather, and others. The Cubs are focused on the postseason with their current core group, where Hoerner plays a vital role. All of this raises doubts about whether the Cubs will trade a proven player like Hoerner at this time.
Nico knocks out his second home run of the night. pic.twitter.com/DmtMNOAC3t
— Chicago Cubs (@Cubs) September 25, 2024
The Bellinger Caveat
One possible rebuttal is that Hoerner’s transaction, which would indicate an intention to increase the lineup’s “damage” potential, would persuade Cody Bellinger to stay. Bellinger remains the Cubs’ greatest chance at a franchise player. Would he decide to stick around and see how things work out in 2025 if he saw the Cubs sign another big bat this offseason?
Farm (System) to Table
Aside from starting pitching, the Cubs’ farm system remains their best chance for improvement. Their top prospect, Matt Shaw, is a versatile infielder who would blend well with players like Isaac Paredes, Dansby Swanson, and MLB All-Rookie First Team member Michael Busch. Owen Caissie and Kevin Alcántara are both ready to step in as right fielders, with Caissie showcasing his power at the plate, boasting a .847 OPS, 19 home runs, and 75 RBIs.
Additionally, 20-year-old Moises Ballesteros has drawn attention for his impressive “freakishly hitterish” performance in the Arizona Fall League, where he posted a 1.097 OPS in just 17 plate appearances. Ballesteros is likely to focus on securing a catching role, especially since Michael Busch has solidified first base. However, if the Cubs opt to trade Hoerner, Busch could shift to second base, opening first base for the young standout.
Should He Stay or Should He Go?
My goodness, Moises Ballesteros got all of this one.
111 mph, 414 feet pic.twitter.com/HEXd8zmoyg
— Aram Leighton (@AramLeighton8) October 13, 2024
The Cubs have a range of options available this fall, both major and minor. As a big market team, they have the potential to pursue various trades or free agent signings. However, ownership seems inclined to avoid high-profile deals for now, possibly to create space for a significant move at the 2025 trade deadline.
When considering whether the Cubs should trade Nico Hoerner, it may be premature to make a definitive decision. While the team’s defense could come together relatively quickly, losing Hoerner’s hitting could prove too challenging to replace. This might lead to another season of stagnation. Conversely, if the Cubs can trade Hoerner for the right talent to address a pressing need, it could elevate them from being a good team to a great one in 2025.
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