Nico Hoerner's six-year contract extension with the Chicago Cubs, reportedly worth $141 million, is making waves in the MLB. By securing Hoerner, the Cubs have ensured their Gold Glove second baseman won't be lured away in free agency. This deal marks the fourth-largest guarantee in MLB history for a second baseman, trailing only behind Robinson Cano, Marcus Semien, and Jose Altuve.
The contract, featuring deferred payments, is estimated to have a present value in the mid-$130 million range. While the numbers might initially seem staggering, it's crucial to consider the context. With a thin upcoming free agent class for second basemen and shortstops, Hoerner was poised to be a top-tier option if he hit the market after another strong season in 2026.
The Cubs acted decisively, making Hoerner the third-highest-paid player on the team, just behind Dansby Swanson and Alex Bregman. This move is part of a broader strategy by the organization to lock in their home-grown talent.
Following a recent extension with Pete Crow-Armstrong, the Cubs now have their infield secured through at least the 2029 season. Hoerner and Crow-Armstrong are set to be key figures for the team through 2032.
Despite a tough 10-4 loss to the Washington Nationals on Opening Day, Cubs fans found a silver lining in the announcement of Hoerner's extension. The infielder, who was set to become a free agent after the 2026 season, could have been a hot commodity in a weak shortstop market.
Hoerner's consistency has been a hallmark of his career. Since 2022, he's been a reliable performer both offensively and defensively:
- 2022: 135 games, .281/.327/.410, 20 stolen bases, 108 wRC+, 13 OAA, 10 DRS, 4.3 fWAR
- 2023: 150 games, .283/.346/.383, 43 stolen bases, 103 wRC+, 13 OAA, 11 DRS, 4.5 fWAR
- 2024: 151 games, .273/.335/.373, 31 stolen bases, 102 wRC+, 10 OAA, 4 DRS, 3.9 fWAR
- 2025: 156 games, .297/.345/.394, 29 stolen bases, 109 wRC+, 14 OAA, 17 DRS, 4.8 fWAR
At 28, Hoerner is coming off his best season yet, boasting a 4.8 fWAR and a second Gold Glove award. His 6.2 bWAR led all second basemen and tied him with Juan Soto for seventh-best among MLB position players.
This extension is a significant win for the Cubs, aligning with fans' long-standing desires to retain their top talent. It's a promising step forward for the franchise's future.