Nico Hoerner secures his future with the Chicago Cubs
The Chicago Cubs have reached an agreement to extend second baseman Nico Hoerner’s contract for six years, according to sources close to the team. This agreement is subject to the approval of a physical examination. Hoerner, 28, stood out last season by leading all second basemen in fWAR, reaching a career high of 4.8. He batted .297 with seven home runs, 29 stolen bases, and 61 RBIs, in addition to recording a .371 with runners in scoring position. He was awarded the Gold Glove at his position and finished 19th in the National League MVP voting. In the postseason, Hoerner batted .419, contributing to the Cubs reaching the National League Division Series. Selected in the 24th position of the 2018 draft, Hoerner signed a three-year, $35 million extension with Chicago before the 2024 season. This agreement would expire after this year, which would have made him a free agent for the first time. With this new extension, Hoerner joins Alex Bregman, Dansby Swanson, and Pete Crow-Armstrong as a fundamental part of the team in the future. The Cubs and Crow-Armstrong agreed to a six-year extension earlier this week. Bregman signed a five-year contract in January, while Swanson signed a seven-year deal in 2023. Hoerner’s performance has improved each year, culminating in a standout offensive season in 2025. His strikeout percentage decreased to a career-low of 7.6%, with only 49 strikeouts all season. Furthermore, he achieved career highs in WRC+ and OPS+, becoming the team’s most consistent hitter in key moments. The Cubs are confident that Hoerner still has room to grow.This was said before the team’s defeat on Opening Day against the Washington Nationals.I think Nico can keep improving. I am optimistic that he is going to be even better. He has the ability to hit the ball harder. I think that is ready to be shown.
Craig Counsell, Cubs manager
