Chicago Cubs: Nico Hoerner and teammates address trade rumors

Chicago Cubs second baseman Nico Hoerner has admitted to admiring incoming Cub Alex Bregman throughout his development as a player. Questions abound, however, whether he’ll actually get a chance to play with Chicago’s new third baseman.

More News: Chicago Cubs: Matt Shaw speaks on Bregman signing and his future with the Cubs

Rumors are rampant about teams approaching the Cubs in pursuit of a possible deal involving the old school second baseman. Reports suggest that several teams have been in contact about Hoerner, including the San Francisco Giants, Boston Red Sox, and New York Yankees.

What makes the rumors at least somewhat plausible is the fact that the 28-year-old is headed into the last year of his contract and is set to become one of the most coveted assets of the 2027 free agent class. There’s also the reality that Bregman’s addition gives the team a surplus of infielders, allowing for last year’s third basemen Matt Shaw to be shifted over to second if Hoerner is dealt.

Nico Hoerner speaks on trade rumors

More News: What the Chicago Cubs could get in a Nico Hoerner trade

Hoerner, though, doesn’t seem too frazzled about the buzz. He loves being a Cub, but he also understands the business side of the sport.

“I love playing for the Cubs,” Hoerner told media at the annual Cubs convention. “I’m so excited for this season and the roster that we have going into this year. I think that (the addition of Bregman) just lets all of us know the kind of direction we’re on.”

“I think it’s just a part of being close to free agency and not having a trade clause, right?” Hoerner said of the trade rumors. “Above all, just remembering that it’s not a personal thing and the team’s job is to always make the best possible roster they have the ability to do.”

Hoerner’s presence as an elite contact hitter and Gold Glove defender at second is valued by all. He’s also become a team leader with his motivated play and his dedication to excellence. Last season, he practically carried the team down the stretch and through the playoffs as the offense struggled with inconsistency.

Cubs teammates gush over Hoerner as trade rumors swirl

Teammates at the annual convention were quick to speak on Hoerner and how they don’t want the trade rumors to be true.

“He’s an asset to any group,” left fielder Ian Happ said. “His skill set, the way that he carries himself and the way that he works. He’s a great example for guys. He’s the type of player you want.

“Other teams having interest in a player doesn’t mean anything to our group. We’ll see what happens, but [he’s] obviously one of my best friends in the game and a guy that I love going to war with.”

“Nico means the world to me and to this team,” commented shortstop Dansby Swanson. “Who he is as a person, he brings the same type of energy and competitive spirit that Alex [Bregman] does. He’s somebody that’s just a darn good player, really good winner and irreplaceable, really. There’s no (way to properly) value what he brings to this group on and off the field.”

Realities and perspectives

Sahadev Sharma of The Athletic, meanwhile, is throwing some wet blankets on the trade rumor fires by doubling down on his assertion that a Hoerner swap is not all that likely.

Per Sharma:

“Team sources have emphasized that if a deal were to happen, it’d be because the Cubs were bowled over by an offer. But there is also a belief within the organization that the Cubs value Hoerner — his defense, his intangibles and the whole package — more than any other team would. So it’s highly unlikely that overwhelming offer will come their way.”

Through it all and no matter what happens after his last contract season, Hoerner is steadfast in expressing his love for his teammates, the organization, and Cubs fans in general. He wants to win in Chicago, with this team. He signed a three-year, $35 million contract extension in 2023 because he believed in the team’s path to winning and he’s seeing those efforts come to fruition right before his eyes.

“I love playing for the Cubs. I think that was evident in signing a deal initially and hopefully evident just in how I approach the game,” Hoerner added. “I have gratitude of being here and playing in front of these fans. I’m so excited for this season and the roster that we have going into this year. That being the absolute main focus and things falling in line from there.

“I definitely want to be here for this season and with this group. I think there’s a ton of satisfaction in seeing an organization and players around you develop. It’s been a really steady arc of improvement here.”

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