Nico Hoerner is locked in as the Cubs’ starting second baseman for 2026. That much we know.
But what comes after this season? That’s the bigger question - and one the Cubs’ front office would be wise to answer sooner rather than later.
Hoerner’s name floated around in trade rumors earlier this offseason, along with rising infield prospect Matt Shaw. But with spring training now underway, the noise has quieted - at least for now. And while the speculation has taken a back seat, the conversation about Hoerner’s future in Chicago is far from over.
The Cubs have a real opportunity here: lock up a homegrown, two-time Gold Glove winner who brings elite defense, contact hitting, and leadership to the clubhouse. Hoerner isn’t just a steady presence up the middle - he’s the kind of player you build around. And with a potential mass exodus looming after this season, the timing for an extension couldn’t be more critical.
Let’s talk numbers. A five-year deal in the ballpark of $110 million has been floated - enough to carry Hoerner through his age-34 season.
It’s not a small investment, but it’s one that reflects his value on both sides of the ball. Some estimates push that figure higher, into the $120-140 million range, depending on how aggressive the Cubs want to be.
Either way, the price tag puts him in rare air for this franchise.
To put that into perspective: the Cubs have only handed out six contracts north of $100 million in their history. That list includes Jason Heyward, Jon Lester, Yu Darvish, Alfonso Soriano, Dansby Swanson, and Alex Bregman. So if Hoerner gets a deal in that range, he’s joining a pretty exclusive club.
But here’s the thing - Hoerner might just be worth every penny. He came within striking distance of the NL batting title in 2025 and put up a 5.0 WAR season, the kind of all-around impact that doesn’t grow on trees. He’s proven he can handle shortstop at a high level, even though he’s currently manning second base, and that versatility only adds to his long-term value.
Now factor in the context: the 2026-27 free-agent class isn’t expected to be particularly deep. That could make Hoerner one of the most attractive names on the market if he hits free agency. The Cubs will almost certainly extend a qualifying offer if they don’t reach a deal, but that draft pick compensation isn’t going to scare off too many teams - not when you’re talking about a Gold Glove-caliber middle infielder who can hit .300 and steal bases.
And let’s not forget what’s coming at season’s end. Ian Happ, Seiya Suzuki, Shota Imanaga, Jameson Taillon - and yes, Hoerner - are all currently on track to hit the open market.
That’s a lot of talent potentially walking out the door. If Jed Hoyer wants to keep some continuity in the clubhouse and on the field, extending Hoerner before Opening Day would be a smart first step.
This isn’t just about locking up a fan favorite. It’s about maintaining a core piece of the roster during what could be a transitional period for the Cubs.
Hoerner’s glove, bat, and leadership are all known commodities. The longer the Cubs wait, the more expensive - and riskier - it could get.
Bottom line: the Cubs have a chance to make a statement this spring. Keep Nico Hoerner in Chicago, and you’re not just securing your second baseman. You’re investing in stability, culture, and winning baseball.