The Chicago Cubs made a major move last weekend by acquiring a new third baseman, Alex Bregman, with a contract that has a higher average annual value than any player in team history. This acquisition sparked excitement among fans, but it also raised questions about the team’s defensive lineup and whether any players might be on the move. In terms of trade value, Nico Hoerner is considered the best realistic option for the Cubs, and he is currently being pursued by other teams as a result.

Most insiders have dismissed the possibility of a trade involving Hoerner. However, the Cubs now have a direct statement from Hoerner himself regarding his desire to remain with the team. During an appearance at Cubs Con 2026, Hoerner shared his thoughts with Sahadev Sharma of The Athletic (subscription required) and made it clear where he wants to be.

Hoerner Clearly States He Wants to Remain with Cubs

“The trade rumors always make you reflect. Anything that makes you question things is healthy. I absolutely love the Cubs and I’m really grateful to be here right now,” Hoerner said, before declining to discuss his upcoming free agency status.

“Like usual, extension or contract-related things are going to remain internal,” he said. “But I love playing for the Cubs. I think that was evident in signing a deal initially and hopefully evident just in how I approach the game. I have gratitude of being here and playing in front of these fans. I’m so excited for this season and the roster that we have going into this year. That being the absolute main focus and things falling in line from there.”

Hoerner also spoke about his desire to stay with the Cubs for what looks like the culmination of a long process the team has gone through.

“I definitely want to be here for this season and with this group,” he said. “I think there’s a ton of satisfaction in seeing an organization and players around you develop. It’s been a really steady arc of improvement here.”

Will Cubs Actually Consider Trading Hoerner?

By all accounts, most insiders believe it would take an offer that blows Chicago away for them to actually consider trading Hoerner. This is exactly how it should be, as he is the heart and soul of the team and provides intangibles on both sides of the ball that cannot be replaced.

Sharma noted that the Cubs likely value what Hoerner brings to the team significantly more than any team trying to trade for him would. This ultimately makes a deal much less likely. It’s not to say it’s impossible, but it’s safe to assume that if Hoerner were to be traded, it would be for a return so significant that most fans would be able to rationalize it.

It does not seem like that scenario is a reality, though, and both the Cubs and Hoerner appear to be focused on keeping the second baseman a Cub for as long as possible.

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