Cubs Teammates Rally Around Nico Hoerner Amid Trade Rumors Following Bregman Signing

CHICAGO – The ink on Alex Bregman’s blockbuster contract was barely dry before the questions started swirling. A five-year, $175 million deal makes Bregman the Cubs’ third baseman of the present and future – but it also creates a ripple effect across the infield. And right now, that ripple is hitting Nico Hoerner.

With Bregman locked in at the hot corner, the Cubs’ infield suddenly feels crowded. Matt Shaw, one of the organization’s promising young talents, looks poised to shift into a super-utility role – at least for now.

But the bigger question centers on Hoerner, the Gold Glove second baseman and clubhouse cornerstone. Trade rumors have been floating around him all winter, and Bregman’s arrival only stirred the pot.

At Bregman’s introductory press conference, team president Jed Hoyer didn’t shut the door on a potential move, but he made it clear: Hoerner is highly valued in the Cubs’ clubhouse and front office. And if you needed any more proof, just listen to his teammates.

“Nico means the world to me and to this team,” shortstop Dansby Swanson said. “He brings the same type of energy and competitive spirit that Alex does.

He’s a darn good player, a really good winner, and honestly, irreplaceable. There’s no way to properly value what he brings to this group, on and off the field.”

Ian Happ, another clubhouse leader, echoed the sentiment. “He’s an asset to any group,” Happ said.

“His skill set, the way he carries himself, how he works – he’s a great example for guys. He’s the type of player you want.”

Hoerner, for his part, isn’t blind to the business side of the game. He’s entering the final year of his contract and doesn’t have a no-trade clause.

From a purely transactional standpoint, there’s logic behind the speculation. But that doesn’t mean a deal is imminent – or even likely.

Sources inside the organization have emphasized that any trade involving Hoerner would require an offer that absolutely blows them away. And there’s a growing sense that the Cubs value Hoerner – his elite defense, his leadership, his makeup – more than any team realistically would in return. In other words, it’s going to take a lot to pry him loose.

And it’s not about clearing payroll. Even with Bregman’s contract on the books, the Cubs are sitting just under the first luxury tax threshold.

But with a full season’s worth of roster movement ahead, they’re almost certainly heading over that $244 million line – and they seem comfortable with that reality. This isn’t a team looking to cut corners; it’s one that believes it’s ready to compete.

As for Hoerner, he’s not letting the noise throw him off.

“I don’t really find myself lacking focus or motivation too much,” he said. “The trade rumors always make you reflect.

Anything that makes you question things is healthy. I absolutely love the Cubs and I’m really grateful to be here right now.”

And he’s genuinely excited to share a clubhouse with Bregman – someone he’s admired for a long time.

“He’s probably the hitter I’ve looked at most in my life,” Hoerner said.

It’s easy to see the parallels. Both are elite defenders.

Both have a reputation for grinding out at-bats and controlling the strike zone. Bregman brings more power and a deeper postseason résumé, but the mindset is similar – edge, intensity, and a relentless work ethic that coaches love.

It’s been three years since Hoerner signed a three-year, $35 million extension – a deal that was seen as a vote of confidence in the Cubs’ direction during a transitional period. And now, that direction is clear. This team is built to win, and Hoerner is a big part of that equation.

If there’s one thing fans would love to hear more than trade rumors, it’s extension talks. But don’t expect anything public on that front.

“Like usual, extension or contract-related things are going to remain internal,” Hoerner said. “But 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. I have gratitude for 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’s the absolute main focus – and things will fall in line from there.”

There’s a lot to like about this Cubs roster heading into 2026. Bregman adds a proven bat and postseason pedigree.

Edward Cabrera brings a live arm to the rotation. The bullpen’s getting a facelift.

And even with Kyle Tucker’s departure, this group has the look of a contender – especially after last fall’s NLDS run.

Hoerner’s been through the rebuild. He’s seen the lows. And now, with the Cubs on the rise, he’s not looking to miss out on the payoff.

“I definitely want to be here for this season and with this group,” he said. “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.”

The Cubs are turning the corner – and if they have their way, Hoerner will be right there with them.