Cubs’ Offseason Drama: Bregman’s Arrival and Hoerner’s Trade Rumors Spark Tension in Chicago

As the Chicago Cubs embark on what is shaping up to be a transformative offseason, the team’s front office has been navigating a period of intense change, player acquisitions, and trade rumors. One of the most significant moves came earlier this week when news broke that Kyle Tucker, the Cubs’ big trade acquisition from last season, would be heading to the Los Angeles Dodgers after securing a hefty four-year, $240 million contract. This shift marks the end of Tucker’s brief tenure with the Cubs, leaving a major gap on the roster.

But the Cubs weren’t caught off guard. They had already set the wheels in motion by signing veteran infielder Alex Bregman to a five-year, $175 million contract. The move was announced officially on Wednesday, and by Thursday, the deal had been celebrated at an introductory press conference at Wrigley Field. This strategic signing has been met with much excitement, but also a few lingering questions, especially regarding the Cubs’ infield depth.

Hoerner’s Position in the Cubs’ Future

While the Bregman deal may have filled a significant hole for the Cubs, it has also brought into question the future of Nico Hoerner. Hoerner, the Cubs’ starting second baseman and one of the team’s most reliable players over the past few seasons, now finds himself in the midst of swirling trade rumors. The Cubs have seemingly created an excess of talent in their infield with Bregman’s addition, prompting the front office to evaluate whether Hoerner or Matt Shaw, a potential future star, might be expendable.

As MLB.com’s Jordan Bastian noted, the Cubs pursued Bregman in free agency, adding him to a roster that already had solid infield depth. Now, with Bregman on board, it’s left to be seen whether Hoerner, who is set to become a free agent after this season, might find himself on the trade block. The Cubs have been open to discussing potential trades, even if no definitive moves are currently in the works.

“There are no indications that the Cubs are looking to move Hoerner,” reported Sahadev Sharma of The Athletic. “But other teams have come calling, and this organization won’t hang up when others ring. The Cubs will listen, and if they’re blown away, they may decide it’s the right thing to do.”

The Cubs’ front office, led by president of baseball operations Jed Hoyer, has made it clear that they will entertain offers, particularly if the deal could significantly benefit the team’s future. Yet, Hoyer’s remarks during Bregman’s introductory press conference seemed to suggest that the Cubs still value Hoerner highly, further fueling the speculation about the second baseman’s future in Chicago.

Hoerner Responds to Trade Talk

The growing buzz surrounding Hoerner’s possible departure from the Cubs reached a fever pitch during the team’s Cubs Convention, a fan festival held to kick off the 2026 season. While the trade rumors continued to dominate the headlines, Hoerner himself addressed the speculation head-on.

Hoerner, who signed a team-friendly extension three years ago, explained that the trade rumors were largely driven by the fact that he is heading into the final year of his current contract. “The trade rumors are a product of me being a free agent after this season and not having a no-trade clause in the expiring extension I signed three years ago,” Hoerner said, as reported by Bruce Levine of Marquee Sports Network on X (formerly Twitter).

Both Hoerner and Hoyer declined to discuss whether extension talks had taken place, keeping the future of the second baseman in the air. However, the uncertainty surrounding Hoerner’s status has only intensified as spring training approaches. Despite the uncertainty, Hoerner’s calm demeanor in the face of trade rumors highlights his professionalism and commitment to the team, regardless of what may come.

Shaw’s Future and Cubs’ Roster Decisions

The addition of Bregman also raises concerns for Matt Shaw, one of the Cubs’ top prospects. Shaw, a highly touted infielder, was expected to play a significant role in the Cubs’ future. However, Bregman’s arrival now blocks Shaw from securing a regular role on the team, particularly at third base.

Darragh McDonald of MLB Trade Rumors noted that the shift in infield dynamics could make it difficult for Shaw to find consistent playing time, especially if he is relegated to a part-time role. This limited playing time could hinder Shaw’s development, which is crucial if he is to take over for Hoerner at second base in the near future. With Bregman locking down third base and Dansby Swanson entrenched at shortstop, Shaw’s path to a starting job seems increasingly unclear.

The Cubs’ Long-Term Vision: Hoerner, Bregman, and Beyond

The Cubs’ current infield logjam is a reflection of the team’s broader strategy under Hoyer’s leadership. The front office’s aggressive moves this offseason show that the Cubs are intent on building a competitive roster capable of contending for a World Series in the near future. The Bregman acquisition, while a major boost, has also created some tough decisions for the Cubs’ management.

As for Hoerner, his future in Chicago remains uncertain. If the Cubs decide to retain him, they could find themselves with one of the most formidable infields in baseball. Hoerner’s bat-to-ball skills, steady defense, and ability to perform in clutch situations make him an asset for any team. However, the Cubs’ desire to build a deep and dynamic roster could lead them to explore trade opportunities if the right offer presents itself.

What’s Next for Hoerner, Bregman, and Shaw?

As the offseason continues, the Cubs’ decision-makers will need to evaluate the long-term viability of their infield. Will Hoerner remain a key part of the team, or will the Cubs capitalize on his trade value? Will Shaw’s future with the Cubs be impacted by the arrival of Bregman, or will the team find a way to incorporate him into their plans?

Spring Training is just around the corner, and with it, the Cubs’ roster decisions will come into sharper focus. Fans will be eagerly watching how the Cubs’ infield takes shape, and whether Hoerner, Bregman, and Shaw can coexist on a roster that is looking to make a deep playoff run in 2026.

While the rumors continue to swirl, one thing is for certain: the Cubs’ front office is committed to making bold moves, and the next chapter in this exciting offseason could define the direction of the franchise for years to come.