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TheNew York Yankees are entering an unnecessary competition this offseason, but one that could ultimately help them upgrade their infield heading into a challenging 2026 season. The battle centers on Nico Hoerner, though standing in their way are the Boston Red Sox, who also have the second baseman in their sights.
According to Joel Sherman of the New York Post, the Yankees are looking to balance their lineup.
The ideal candidate
For Sherman-and it's hard to argue otherwise-Nico Hoerner is an ideal fit. The Chicago Cubs were reportedly "open" to trading him after signing Alex Bregman, a move that could open the door for prospect Matt Shaw (or another internal option) to play second base.
"Among his many assets, Hoerner is an elite defensive second baseman, an outstanding baserunner and someone who hit .369 vs. lefties last year with just a 5.4% strikeout rate," Sherman said.
"But he is due $12 million for 2026 before becoming a free agent, and the Cubs would have to get a strong return to consider dealing him," Sherman concludes.
The problem for New York is that the Red Sox are also in the market for an infielder after watching Bregman head to Chicago. And according to Tim Healey of the Boston Globe, Nico Hoerner is one of their serious targets as well.
A quick note on his offensive production: Hoerner has never hit more than 10 home runs in a season, but he struck out only 48 times last year and has stolen at least 20 bases in each of the past four seasons.
If the Yankees manage to land him, it would undoubtedly turn what has been a somewhat underwhelming offseason into a much stronger one.