Cubs may trade Nico Hoerner for contract reason

Billy Heyen

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Cubs may trade Nico Hoerner for contract reason image

Nico Hoerner has been a reliable player for the Chicago Cubs.

But he's also entering the final year of his contract, which could make him a trade candidate, if the Cubs want to view the situation that way.

It's not clear whether Chicago would go along with this thinking, but it's something suggested by MLB.com's Mark Feinsand, so it's not out of the blue.

"Hoerner is in the final year of the three-year, $35 million extension he signed in March 2023, and while he may not be a likely trade candidate, his situation features the kind of ingredients that make him an ideal trade fit," Feinsand writes. "Hoerner’s elite defense, consistency at the plate and leadership make him a valued member of the Cubs, but Matt Shaw could slide over to second base, opening third base for any number of available options this offseason."

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It's that last point from Feinsand that is most intriguing.

If the Cubs were to move Hoerner, there'd be an opening either at second base or third base, depending on where they want to play Matt Shaw.

Chicago probably wouldn't make a move like this unless it knew there was a replacement lined up. Giving up on Hoerner just because he's in his final contract season isn't a good enough move for a contender unless the puzzle pieces that fall into place around it make sense.

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The Cubs could also seek an extension to Hoerner as an alternative to a trade. If Chicago were to get him signed for a few more years before Opening Day, then this would all be a non-issue.

It's certainly something to keep an eye on.

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Staff Writer