Dodgers Eyeing Nico Hoerner as Bo Bichette Pursuit Slips Away: Could Chicago’s Star Second Baseman Be the Answer?

The Los Angeles Dodgers are once again navigating the offseason, looking to bolster their roster, but they find themselves in a bit of a bind as their pursuit of star shortstop Bo Bichette seems to be slipping away. While the Dodgers remain in the mix for Bichette, who is reportedly seeking a massive $300 million contract, the Philadelphia Phillies have entered the fray and could be the new frontrunners for his services.

Philadelphia, who recently hired Don Mattingly—Bichette’s former bench coach in Toronto—has been showing serious interest in the shortstop. The Phillies appear to be far more invested in securing his services, and they could be in a position to offer him the kind of long-term deal that the Dodgers, who don’t need a second baseman, aren’t likely to match.

With the Dodgers seemingly out of the race for Bichette, they could very well shift their attention to another intriguing option in the market—Nico Hoerner, the versatile and beloved second baseman for the Chicago Cubs. The Dodgers have made it clear that they are interested in upgrading at second base, and while they’ve been linked to other candidates, Hoerner could be the ideal solution to their middle-infield dilemma.

Bichette to the Phillies: The Dodgers’ Options Dwindle

While the Dodgers are no strangers to big-money pursuits, their interest in Bichette has faced increasing competition, especially with the Phillies’ overtures. The Mets’ pursuit of top-tier talent like Kyle Tucker and the Phillies’ need for a long-term deal could make it more difficult for the Dodgers to secure Bichette’s services. The main issue is that while the Dodgers don’t necessarily need a second baseman, they are in the market to improve at that position.

Tommy Edman, a key piece of the Dodgers’ middle infield, is recovering from offseason ankle surgery, and despite the team re-signing Miguel Rojas and adding Andy Ibáñez, neither of these players projects to be everyday fixtures in the lineup. As the offseason moves forward, the Dodgers’ need for a reliable second baseman has become more evident, and with Bichette seemingly slipping out of reach, Hoerner could be a perfect fit.

Why Nico Hoerner Could Be the Ideal Addition for the Dodgers

Hoerner has spent his entire career with the Cubs, and in that time, he has developed into one of the top second basemen in Major League Baseball. His defensive abilities have earned him two Gold Gloves, and he has proven himself as a capable hitter, coming off his career-best season in 2025. Hoerner hit .297 with a .739 OPS, 29 stolen bases, and a staggering 7.6% strikeout rate, all of which contributed to a 6.2 bWAR.

At just 28 years old, Hoerner still has a lot of baseball ahead of him, and the Dodgers could be in a perfect position to take advantage of his potential while adding another piece to their lineup. Hoerner is in the final year of a team-friendly deal worth $35 million, with $12 million remaining for the 2026 season. That makes him an incredibly affordable option, particularly for a team like the Dodgers, who might be reluctant to commit to a long-term deal.

In addition to his on-field prowess, Hoerner is beloved by Cubs fans, who would surely feel the loss if he were traded. His popularity and his connection to the city of Chicago are notable, and trading him would be a tough decision for the Cubs’ front office. However, with the Dodgers lurking as a potential suitor, the Cubs could be tempted by the right offer, especially if they feel Hoerner’s future in Chicago is uncertain with the recent arrival of Alex Bregman.

Hoerner vs. Bichette: What the Dodgers Need

The Dodgers have made their desire to upgrade the middle infield clear, and Hoerner fits the bill perfectly. While Bichette’s offensive production has been outstanding, Hoerner offers something the Dodgers could desperately use: youth, reliable contact hitting, and a defensive presence at second base. The Dodgers have an aging roster and need more players who can provide consistent production without breaking the bank on long-term contracts.

With Hoerner, the Dodgers could add a player who will contribute immediately. His ability to make consistent contact—coupled with his strong defense—would strengthen the Dodgers’ middle infield without sacrificing the balance of their roster. Hoerner would likely come at a more reasonable price compared to Bichette, and with his familiarity in the league, the Dodgers could feel confident in his ability to help them contend for another championship.

The Cubs’ Dilemma: Will They Move Hoerner?

Although Hoerner is still one of the Cubs’ most consistent and beloved players, the arrival of Alex Bregman could lead to a shift in the Cubs’ roster. The Cubs are already committed to their long-term future with Bregman, and if they decide to make a move for him, it could push Hoerner to the fringes of the roster. As such, the Dodgers might be able to capitalize on this situation, particularly given the Cubs’ potential willingness to move him if the right trade offer materializes.

If the Dodgers are truly serious about adding a second baseman, Hoerner represents an excellent option. They have the prospects to entice the Cubs, and with the chance to steal a trade candidate away from the Yankees—much like they did with Devin Williams last year—the Dodgers could have a significant advantage in negotiations.

A Quiet Offseason for the Dodgers: Are They Plotting Something Bigger?

The Dodgers have had a relatively quiet offseason, with rumors swirling around potential trades for players like Brendan Donovan, Lars Nootbaar, and Steven Kwan, only for those discussions to fizzle out. Still, the team’s interest in Hoerner and other infield upgrades suggests that they may be biding their time, waiting for the right move to materialize.

If the Dodgers are serious about improving their middle infield, Hoerner could be the perfect fit. His contract situation makes him an affordable and attractive target, and the Dodgers would be wise to make a move before other teams like the Yankees or Phillies get more involved.

Conclusion: The Dodgers May Look to Hoerner After Bichette Slips Away

With the Dodgers’ pursuit of Bo Bichette likely coming to an end, the focus should shift to Nico Hoerner, who fits their needs for a young, reliable second baseman without the long-term financial commitment that a player like Bichette would require. Hoerner has the potential to help elevate the Dodgers’ roster, and with his affordable contract situation, he could represent an excellent value in their quest for another World Series title.

As the offseason continues to unfold, the Dodgers must make some tough decisions, but trading for Hoerner could be a move that pays off in the short and long term. With their deep pool of prospects and a clear need for an upgrade in the middle infield, the Dodgers could be poised to strike a deal with the Cubs, making Hoerner the next great addition to their roster.