As the Yankees seek to fortify their infield ahead of the 2025 season, one intriguing option could be Chicago Cubs’ second baseman, Nico Hoerner. Known for his elite defensive abilities and solid base-running, Hoerner would give the Yankees a reliable presence at second base, a position they’ve struggled to lock down since the departure of Gleyber Torres.
With two years of control remaining and an $11.67 million salary, Hoerner represents a high-value, win-now asset. A potential trade framework could send Yankees prospects Will Warren, Jake Cousins, and Carlos Lagrange to the Cubs in exchange for Hoerner.
Hoerner’s All-Around Value
Hoerner brings a well-rounded skill set to the table. In 2024, the 27-year-old played 151 games, slashing .273/.335/.373 with seven home runs, 48 RBIs, and 31 stolen bases. While his power numbers may not jump off the page, his 103 wRC+ and elite base-running metrics more than make up for it. Defensively, Hoerner is among the league’s best at second base. He posted four defensive runs saved and 10 outs above average over 1234.1 innings, making him a standout on a Yankees roster that could use more run prevention.
Hoerner’s ability to impact the game with his glove, legs, and bat would give the Yankees a reliable presence at the top or bottom of the lineup. His contact-heavy approach and speed could play well at the leadoff spot.
What the Yankees Would Be Giving Up
To acquire Hoerner, the Yankees would likely need to part with multiple valuable assets. The proposed package includes Will Warren, Jake Cousins, and Carlos Lagrange, each offering their own upside.
Warren, a 25-year-old right-handed pitcher, made his MLB debut in 2024, tossing 22.2 innings with a 10.32 ERA but had great strikeout numbers. As a back-end starter with room to grow, Warren provides the Cubs with cost-controlled depth for their rotation.
Cousins, a 30-year-old reliever, is coming off a strong 2024 season in the Yankees bullpen. He posted a 2.37 ERA over 38 innings, boasting 12.55 strikeouts per nine and a lethal slider that limited opposing hitters to a .140 batting average. With four years of team control remaining, Cousins would give Chicago a valuable late-inning arm to bolster their bullpen.
Lagrange, a 21-year-old pitching prospect, adds additional upside to the deal. The right-hander spent most of 2024 in Single-A, recording a 6.91 ERA and 14.1 strikeouts per nine over 14.1 innings. His projectable frame and improving command make him an intriguing long-term piece for the Cubs’ farm system.
Why This Makes Sense for the Yankees
Adding Hoerner would give the Yankees a surefire solution at second base, a position that remains unsettled despite the emergence of Jazz Chisholm and DJ LeMahieu’s presence on the roster. Hoerner’s elite defense, base-running, and offensive consistency would complement the Yankees’ power-heavy lineup while improving their infield depth and versatility.
While the cost in prospects is notable, Hoerner’s two years of control at a reasonable salary make him an appealing target for a Yankees team looking to compete at the highest level. His addition would also give the Yankees flexibility at the trade deadline, allowing them to address other areas of need without worrying about their infield.
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For the Cubs, the deal would infuse their roster with pitching depth and future upside, a fair return for a player who may be nearing the end of his tenure in Chicago. This trade could be a win-win for both sides, setting the stage for a strong 2025 season.