Cubs’ chances of trading Nico Hoerner just increased exponentially

Originally posted on ChiCitySports | By Matthew Schmidt | Last updated Jan 16, 2026 7:41 PM ET

The Chicago Cubs have been surprisingly busy over the last several weeks, swinging a trade to acquire pitcher Edward Cabrera from the Miami Marlins while also signing third baseman Alex Bregman to a five-year contract.

However, the Bregman addition may have ramifications.

The three-time All-Star will be making $35 million annually, which further complicates the chances of the Cubs re-signing Nico Hoerner next winter. Plus, Chicago’s infield is now a bit crowded, as Matt Shaw will now have to move into a super utility role.

That is, of course, unless Chicago trades Hoerner, and the possibility of that occurring may have just increased considerably.

Why? Because Bo Bichette just inked a three-year, $126 million deal with the New York Mets, which has unquestionably caused Hoerner’s price to rise.

Will the Chicago Cubs trade Nico Hoerner?

Jun 24, 2025; St. Louis, Missouri, USA; Chicago Cubs second baseman Nico Hoerner (2) is congratulated by teammates after scoring against the St. Louis Cardinals during the third inning at Busch Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Curry-Imagn Images

We know Cubs owner Tom Ricketts is rather frugal as it is. That’s why Chicago’s decision to hand Bregman $175 million was a surprise to many. But will he open up his wallet again to retain one of the best middle infielders in baseball?

Hoerner led all second basemen with a 4.8 WAR in 2025, slashing .297/.345/.394 with seven home runs and 61 RBI. He also captured his second Gold Glove award, making him an incredibly valuable commodity.

So why would Chicago let him go? Well, the 28-year-old hits free agency after next season, and he is sure to command a rather hefty contract. One that the Cubs may not be able — or willing — to afford. Especially now that Bichette may have just reset the market for middle infielders.

Of course, the lingering lockout next December also plays a huge factor here, so Chicago may want to just trade Hoerner now, recoup all of the assets and be done with it. But at the same time, the Cubbies are clearly trying to contend based on the fact that they landed both Cabrera and Bregman.

Any Hoerner trade have to feature a massive return. If the Cubs did receive a substantial offer from another club, they may be tempted to pull the trigger, particularly after just watching Bichette land $42 million annually.

Will Chicago trade Hoerner this winter? Probably not, but the chances of the Cubs doing so between now and the July trade deadline have spiked.

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

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