The Chicago Cubs have had a quiet offseason.
They've already let Kyle Tucker leave in free agency, and they haven't yet responded with a big signing.
And now, they might be trading someone away.
The New York Post's Jon Heyman reported this week that the Cubs are taking trade calls on second baseman Nico Hoerner.
A trade was previously 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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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.
The Cubs could also try and sign Hoerner to an extension.
There are still options, but Chicago fans probably wouldn't like giving up such a talented contact hitter unless someone else exciting was coming in.
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