The Chicago Cubs remain focused on constructing a team built not just for immediate success but for sustained excellence in the years ahead. As part of this strategy, they’ve brought in players like Kyle Tucker, Matthew Boyd, Eli Morgan, and Caleb Thielbar through trades and free agency. At the same time, they’ve parted ways with talents like Cody Bellinger, banking on such moves to pay off in the long term.
With that in mind, the Cubs are always open to deals that could improve the team.
Nico Hoerner: Trade Candidate?
Second baseman Nico Hoerner has reportedly been a topic of discussion in various trade proposals this offseason. In fact, it’s been suggested that the Cubs have actively explored trading him in pursuit of valuable assets, particularly pitching.
The Trade Proposal
John Perrotto of Draft Nation floated an intriguing idea involving Hoerner as trade bait for a high-profile return.
His suggestion?
The Cubs could send Hoerner to the Padres in exchange for infielder Luis Arraez, right-handed reliever Jeremiah Estrada, and two Class A prospects—left-hander Kash Mayfield and shortstop Cobb Hightower.
According to Perrotto:
“The three-time batting champion Arraez could fill the hole left by Hoerner at second base. The Padres, in turn, would shed Arraez’s $14-million salary, freeing up money while acquiring Hoerner, who has two years and $23.5 million remaining on his contract.”
The proposal is eye-catching, given that it’s a four-for-one trade, featuring a three-time All-Star and batting champion in Arraez. Statistically, Arraez’s offensive profile, including his lifetime .323 batting average, outshines Hoerner’s. However, Hoerner’s value extends beyond the box score.
Hoerner’s Value
At 27, Hoerner—who underwent surgery on his right forearm’s flexor tendon in October—brings more to the table than just offense. A Gold Glove-caliber second baseman, he can also play above-average shortstop, is one of the league’s top contact hitters, and provides a steady presence both offensively and defensively. Additionally, he’s a legitimate base-stealing threat.
Financially, Hoerner’s $3 million lower salary and one extra year of team control (he’s a free agent after 2026, compared to Arraez’s free agency after 2025) also bolster his trade value.
Why Consider This Trade?
For the Padres, the appeal lies in reducing payroll and gaining a reliable player like Hoerner for at least two seasons.
For the Cubs, adding Arraez’s elite bat—potentially to slot right in front of Kyle Tucker in the lineup—could make the offense more formidable. Plus, the inclusion of a bullpen arm and two promising prospects sweetens the deal.
However, the Cubs would face defensive challenges. Arraez, known more for his bat than his glove, could be a liability at second base. First base is another option, but Michael Busch currently holds that spot. Most likely, Arraez would have to slot in as the designated hitter, raising questions about the future of Seiya Suzuki, the Cubs’ current DH.
Final Thoughts
While the proposal has merits for both teams, it also creates significant uncertainties. For now, such a deal seems unlikely to materialize, though the idea underscores the Cubs’ willingness to explore all options in their pursuit of long-term success.
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