Should the Red Sox trade for Nico Hoerner of the Cubs? A compelling case can be made for the Red Sox to pursue Nico Hoerner, a Gold Glove-winning infielder with the Chicago Cubs. Hoerner's defensive prowess, as evidenced by his Gold Glove and top-tier Outs Above Average (15) in 2025, makes him an ideal candidate to shore up the Red Sox's shaky infield defense. With a .297 batting average, .345 on-base percentage, and .394 slugging percentage, Hoerner provides a well-rounded offensive contribution, despite his lack of power (7 home runs).
The Red Sox, known for their defensive struggles, would benefit from Hoerner's stability and consistency. In 2024, he had zero throwing errors and only four fielding errors, missing just six games. His fWAR of 4.8 is impressive, and while it's not on par with Pedroia's, it's still a strong performance. Hoerner's quick reflexes and arm strength, showcased in a highlight where he turned two on an infield fly rule in under five seconds, further solidify his value.
However, there are considerations to keep in mind. The Cubs would likely demand high-end prospects or significant assets in a trade, which could be a challenge for the Red Sox. Additionally, Hoerner's free agency status next season, as evidenced by his recent 3-year, $35 million deal with the Cubs, means he could command a substantial contract. The Red Sox might also want to assess Marcelo Mayer's potential at other positions and consider the outfield logjam, which could lead to players like Rafaela or Campbell being moved to the infield.
In conclusion, while Hoerner's defensive skills and offensive capabilities make him an attractive option, the trade's feasibility and the team's strategy must be carefully evaluated. The Red Sox's interest in notable names and their return to the 'interest kings' mode suggest a potential trade, but the outcome remains uncertain.
