🚨 NEW YORK YANKEES IN HEAVY TRADE TALKS: Yankees Eye Cubs’ Nico Hoerner After Bregman Signing, But Are They Too Late to Land the Star Second Baseman? 👇

In recent weeks, the New York Yankees have been at the heart of several rumors swirling around Major League Baseball. The focus has primarily been on their pursuit of star outfielder Cody Bellinger, who is currently the Yankees’ number one free-agent target. As the offseason unfolds, the Yankees have made it clear that re-signing Bellinger is their top priority, but progress has been slow. This delay has caused some concern that Bellinger could walk away and sign with another team, leaving the Yankees to search for alternatives.

However, as these negotiations stall, more potential moves for the Yankees have emerged. According to a recent report from Pat Ragazzo of On SI, the Yankees have expressed interest in another major acquisition—Chicago Cubs second baseman Nico Hoerner. Following the Cubs’ signing of star infielder Alex Bregman, Hoerner has become a name frequently mentioned in trade talks, with many speculating that he could be on the move.

The Yankees have reportedly reached out to the Cubs about Hoerner, showing legitimate interest in acquiring the talented second baseman. While Hoerner’s name wasn’t initially at the forefront of rumors involving the Cubs, the Bregman signing has shifted Chicago’s priorities, making Hoerner a potential trade candidate. This revelation has only intensified speculation surrounding the Yankees’ offseason plans.

A Dream Scenario for the Yankees: Nico Hoerner Could Fill a Huge Gap

If the Yankees manage to land Hoerner, it would be a perfect fit for their roster. The Cubs have made it clear that they’re not actively shopping Hoerner, but the team is open to listening to offers. This is significant news for the Yankees, as it signals that a trade might still be in play. But as the Cubs aren’t eager to move him, the Yankees will have to offer something truly compelling to convince Chicago to part ways with one of their top infielders.

Nico Hoerner is coming off a solid 2025 MLB season, in which he played in 156 games for the Cubs. His offensive numbers were strong, hitting seven home runs and driving in 61 RBIs, while posting a slash line of .297/.345/.394. Hoerner’s consistency at the plate and his solid defensive play make him a highly attractive option for the Yankees, who are looking to bolster their middle infield.

At just 28 years old, Hoerner would not only be an ideal short-term addition but also a long-term solution. He will become an unrestricted free agent following the 2026 season, meaning the Yankees would have the opportunity to work out a potential long-term extension with him if the trade goes through. This would be a win-win for New York, as they would gain a reliable second baseman and possibly lock him down for several years to come.

Moreover, Hoerner’s defensive prowess at second base would provide the Yankees with an elite-level glove in the middle of the field, adding another layer of stability to their already potent defense. For a team like the Yankees, who have struggled to consistently find the right mix of defensive reliability and offensive production, Hoerner represents an ideal candidate to fill a key role.

Cubs’ Perspective: Why Hoerner Might Stay in Chicago

Despite the mounting rumors linking Hoerner to the Yankees, the Cubs are not actively looking to trade him. According to Sahadev Sharma of The Athletic, there is no indication that the Cubs are planning to move Hoerner anytime soon. However, Sharma did acknowledge that the Cubs are willing to listen to offers if the right one comes along.

Sharma’s report further suggests that while the Cubs may not be looking to deal Hoerner, they are open to listening if other teams come calling. This leaves the door open for the Yankees, but it also means that Chicago won’t be making any hasty decisions. The Cubs are still invested in Hoerner’s future, and unless the Yankees present a compelling package, it’s likely that Hoerner will remain with Chicago for the 2026 season.

While this is not the best news for the Yankees, it doesn’t necessarily rule out the possibility of a trade. The Cubs are notorious for being opportunistic in the trade market, and if they receive an offer they can’t refuse, they could decide to part ways with the talented second baseman.

The Yankees’ Potential Moves This Offseason: More Targets in the Mix

The Hoerner rumors are not the only offseason moves the Yankees are considering. Other potential trade and free-agent targets have emerged in recent weeks. Among these is Toronto Blue Jays shortstop Bo Bichette, who has garnered significant attention from New York. However, the Phillies and Red Sox are reportedly the front-runners for Bichette, with the Blue Jays still holding a place in the mix.

The Yankees’ interest in Bichette comes as part of their ongoing search for a top-tier shortstop. If they can land Bichette, it would be a huge boost to their lineup, although his potential move to New York is looking increasingly uncertain with the competition heating up.

Another name that has been frequently linked to the Yankees is Houston Astros outfielder Kyle Tucker. Tucker would be a high-priced addition, but his power bat and ability to impact the game on both sides of the ball would significantly improve the Yankees’ already potent offense. If New York can clear the necessary cap space to sign Tucker, he could be a game-changer for them in the coming seasons.

Cody Bellinger: Still the Yankees’ Top Priority

While the Yankees have been busy exploring other options, one player remains at the top of their wishlist—Cody Bellinger. The former National League MVP and Gold Glove winner has been a consistent performer for the Cubs, and the Yankees are determined to keep him in New York. Despite the slow-moving negotiations, it’s clear that Bellinger is the Yankees’ main target heading into the offseason.

If the Yankees can finally come to terms with Bellinger, it would represent a major win for the team. His combination of power, defense, and leadership would add an invaluable dynamic to the Yankees’ outfield. However, the longer the Yankees wait, the greater the chances that another team could swoop in and sign Bellinger, leaving the Yankees to shift their focus elsewhere.

As the offseason progresses, it’s safe to assume that more rumors will continue to swirl around the Yankees. The team is clearly intent on making a splash in free agency and via trade to bolster their roster for the 2026 season. Whether that means securing Nico Hoerner or targeting one of the many other big-name players available, the Yankees will undoubtedly continue to be at the center of the MLB rumor mill.

Conclusion: Will Hoerner Be the Yankees’ Big Move?

For now, the Yankees’ chances of landing Nico Hoerner appear to be slim, as the Cubs are not actively shopping the second baseman. However, the Yankees’ continued interest in him shows that they are looking for ways to improve their infield, and Hoerner would undoubtedly be an excellent fit for the team. If Chicago remains firm in their decision to keep Hoerner, New York will likely need to shift their focus to other targets, such as Bo Bichette or Kyle Tucker.

While it may take some time for the Yankees to make their final decisions, one thing is certain—the team is aiming to improve in a big way this offseason. Whether through trades or free-agent acquisitions, expect to hear more about the Yankees’ plans as they look to make a serious run at the 2026 MLB season.