The Chicago Cubs have been improving throughout the offseason, but one of their returning players is one of the best at their position. Heading into the 2026 MLB season, there are a lot of projections of what players can do. With all of the improvements for Chicago, they have one player who is being overlooked despite being one of the top players. Let’s take a closer look at who it is and why they are ranked so high.
Nico Hoerner ranked third among second basemen heading into the 2026 season
MLB: Chicago Cubs at Athletics Apr 2, 2025; West Sacramento, California, USA; Chicago Cubs second base Nico Hoerner (2) scores a run on a single by outfielder Pete Crow-Armstrong (4) during the fourth inning against the Athletics at Sutter Health Park. Mandatory Credit: Sergio Estrada-Imagn Images
MLB Network had its top 10 second basemen rankings ahead of the 2026 season. The Shredder ranked Cubs second baseman Nico Hoerner as the third-best second baseman, only behind Ketel Marte and Jazz Chisholm Jr.
Hoerner is coming off his best statistical season in 2025 as he would win the National League Gold Glove at the position while also producing at the plate. He recorded a .739 OPS with seven home runs, 61 RBI, 89 runs scored, and 29 stolen bases on 35 attempts. Heading into a contract season, it will be critical for him to continue showcasing his improvement in his age-29 season.
With the infield now being Alex Bregman, Dansby Swanson, Hoerner, and Michael Busch, this is a chance to be an elite infield on both sides of the ball. He can be the biggest X-factor for the Cubs this season if he can figure out how to match this level. It is difficult to find many second basemen who can perform as well as Hoerner can at the plate and with his glove. Even without the lack of power throughout his at-bats, it will be intriguing to see how he develops heading into the 2026 season.
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