Nico Hoerner on Extension’s Edge: Will the Cubs Lock Down Their Gold Glove Glue Guy as Chicago’s Long-Term Face?.vc
Chicago, October 30, 2025 – Nico Hoerner isn’t just a second baseman—he’s the Chicago Cubs’ unsung heartbeat. The 28-year-old’s 2025 masterclass (.297/.345/.394 slash, Gold Glove defense, 6.1 bWAR in 156 games) has insiders buzzing: Extension talks are imminent, with the Cubs eyeing a deal to make him the “face of Chicago” beyond 2026. Signed to a 3-year, $35 million extension in March 2023 (thru 2026 at $12M), Hoerner enters his final controlled year as a free-agent prize. Amid Kyle Tucker’s $427M exit and Pete Crow-Armstrong’s $250M projection, will Jed Hoyer prioritize the elite defender who anchors Wrigley’s infield? Or let $150–200M walk? Cubs Nation, Hoerner’s not just extension-eligible—he’s irreplaceable.
Hoerner’s 2025 Symphony: The Glue That Held It Together
Hoerner was the Cubs’ constant in chaos:
- .297 AVG (top-10 NL), .345 OBP, Gold Glove at 2B (+17 DRS)
- 6.1 bWAR (team-high), 20 SBs, 10 HRs
- Career-best consistency: .986 fielding %, 85th-percentile range
Counsell: “Nico’s our thermostat—defense wins, and he delivers.” NLDS Game 3 vs. Brewers: Popup DP masterpiece ended the threat. X exploded: “Hoerner > Sandberg at 2B!”
Contract Crossroads: Extension or Exodus?
Current Deal: 3 yrs/$35M (2024–26), FA after 2026 (age 29). Projection: 6–8 yrs, $150–200M ($20–25M AAV) – Bellinger comp ($80M/3 yrs).
Why Extend Now?
| Pro | Value |
|---|---|
| Defense | +17 DRS (elite 2B) |
| Consistency | .297 AVG, 6.1 bWAR |
| Leadership | Mentors Shaw/Horton |
| Cost-Control | Pre-FA bargain |
Risks: Power dip (10 HRs), injury history (2023 shoulder). But ZiPS 2026: .295, 4.5 WAR.
Hoyer’s High-Stakes Call
Cubs payroll: $180M (2026), Tucker gone ($427M). Extension Priority: Hoerner > PCA ($250M). Bleacher Nation: “Hoerner’s the anchor—lock him before FA frenzy.” X poll: 78% “Extend Now!”
Conclusion: Hoerner Isn’t Leaving – He’s Leading
Nico Hoerner’s Gold Glove glue makes him Chicago’s face for a decade. Extension isn’t optional—it’s essential. Hoyer, seal it: Wrigley’s heartbeat beats blue.
