Chicago Cubs linked to unthinkable trade with Los Angeles Dodgers

Originally posted on ChiCitySports | By Matthew Schmidt | Last updated Jan 13, 2026 1:09 PM ET

The Chicago Cubs have shockingly struck big twice this month, first swinging a trade for pitcher Edward Cabrera and then signing Alex Bregman to a five-year, $175 million contract in free agency.

Could the Cubs have yet another move up their sleeves?

Well, second baseman Nico Hoerner has been the subject of trade speculation following Chicago’s decision to sign Bregman, as there is currently no room for Matt Shaw in the starting lineup. The most likely scenario is that Shaw takes on a super utility role, but with Hoerner entering his final year before free agency, we cannot entirely rule out a trade.

Horner would certainly have no shortage of suitors, as the two-time Gold Glover slashed .297/.345/.394 with seven home runs and 61 RBI over 649 plate appearances in 2025 while playing sparkling defense, which the pair of Gold Glove award would suggest.

But could the Cubs do something as unthinkable as trade Hoerner to the Los Angeles Dodgers? Brandon Glick of Cubbies Crib feels it’s a possibility.

Could the Chicago Cubs swing a blockbuster trade with the Los Angeles Dodgers?

Oct 6, 2025; Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA; Chicago Cubs second baseman Nico Hoerner (2) looks on before the game against the Milwaukee Brewers during game two of the NLDS round for the 2025 MLB playoffs at American Family Field. Mandatory Credit: Michael McLoone-Imagn Images

Why on earth would a National League contender want to help the Dodgers get better?

Well, Glick actually thinks Los Angeles could represent a strong trade partner for Chicago due to all of the depth it possesses in its farm system.

“Hoerner’s glove and bat would represent a massive upgrade for them at the position, and they have so much talent on both sides of the ball to entice the Cubs with,” Glick wrote. “Heck, their farm system ranks among the best in the sport, even after two straight World Series runs.”

Glick cited how the Cubs were able to pry first baseman Michael Busch away from the Dodgers back in January 2024 and that it may be smart to revisit that well, but Chicago wasn’t trading an All-Star-caliber player to Los Angeles in return back at that time.

Hoerner has never made an All-Star team himself, but there is no doubt that he is one of the best middle infielders in baseball. In fact, the 28-year-old led all second basemen with a 4.8 WAR this past season. Imagine sending him to a Dodgers team that has already won back-to-back championships?

It’s hard to envision the Cubs doing this, as they are attempting to dethrone Los Angeles.

Chances are, Hoerner will stay put unless some club comes knocking with a tremendous offer … and it almost certainly won’t be the Dodgers.

This article first appeared on ChiCitySports and was syndicated with permission.

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