"In the aftermath of the Alex Bregman signing, one of the immediate questions was whether it changed how the Cubs would proceed with Nico Hoerner. Bregman pushed second-year infielder into a utility role, but he'd be capable of stepping in at second base. The Giants, Red Sox and Mariners were among the teams seeking a trade match for a player of Hoerner's profile. Would the Cubs flip him before his walk year?"
"If the Cubs are able to get a long-term deal done with Hoerner this spring, that could make them more comfortable dangling Shaw in deadline talks if any top-of-the-rotation starters come available. Sahadev Sharma of The Athletic wrote this week that Hoerner has emerged as a pillar in the clubhouse. The relationship between team and player is strong enough that it'd be a surprise if they didn't have some conversations before Opening Day about what it'd take to keep him off the market."
Nico Hoerner's status shifted after the Alex Bregman signing, pushing him toward a utility role while remaining capable of playing second base. Several teams, including the Giants, Red Sox and Mariners, expressed trade interest, but the Cubs are unlikely to move him before his walk year absent an overwhelming prospect return. Hoerner is viewed as a stronger short-term option than Shaw and has emerged as a clubhouse pillar. Spring conversations may center on a long-term extension; securing Hoerner would make the Cubs more comfortable using Shaw in deadline trade discussions.
Read at MLB Trade Rumors
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