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5 Reasons the Cubs Shouldn’t Trade Nico Hoerner

Originally posted on The Forkball | By IW Moon | Last updated Jan 17, 2026 11:13 PM ET

With the 2026 offseason in full swing and the Cubs recently making a splash by signing Alex Bregman, Nico Hoerner’s name has frequently popped up in trade rumors. While the surplus of infield talent (with Matt Shaw waiting in the wings) makes him a seemingly logical trade chip, there are several compelling reasons why Chicago should keep him.

1. Elite Defensive Stability

Hoerner is coming off a 2025 Gold Glove season, his second in three years. Breaking up the middle-infield duo of Hoerner and Dansby Swanson would be a massive risk. Since they began playing together in 2023, they have been one of the most statistically dominant defensive pairings in baseball (combining for 76 Outs Above Average). Moving Hoerner would force Shaw into a high-pressure defensive role during a year when the Cubs are clearly all-in.

2. Coming Off a Career-Best Offensive Year

In 2025, Hoerner had arguably his best season yet, finishing as the runner-up for the National League batting title with a .297 average.

LHP Dominance: He led all of MLB in batting average against left-handed pitchers last season at .369.
Small Ball: When the winds blow in at Wrigley, contact hitters and base stealers become a necessity for scoring runs. Hoerner’s dominant plate skills and presence of mind on the bases is undeniable. He also remains in the 99th percentile for strikeout and whiff rates.

3. High-Stakes Experience

Hoerner proved he could handle the pressure during the 2025 postseason, where he hit an incredible .419/.424/.548. His performance was a primary reason the Cubs advanced past the Padres in the Wild Card Series. Trading away a proven playoff performer just as the team is entering its peak contention window would be a self-inflicted wound.

4. Leadership and Intangibles

Inside the clubhouse, Hoerner is frequently cited as a student of the game and a primary leader. Front office officials like Jed Hoyer have publicly praised his baseball IQ and intensity. Replacing that kind of veteran presence with a prospect, regardless of the prospect’s talent, can disrupt team chemistry.

5. Versatility and Depth

While he is a Gold Glove second baseman, Hoerner is also one of the best backup shortstops in the league. If Swanson were to miss time, Hoerner can slide over and provide elite defense at the most demanding position on the field. Afterall, he was drafted as short stop and only moved over to second when they acquired Swanson. Keeping him allows the Cubs to use Shaw in a utility role, giving the team incredible depth and insurance against injuries.