For the most part, the Chicago Cubs failed to extend the core of the team that gave them the 2016 World Series championship.
That resulted in a trading spree in 2021, the year in which Anthony Rizzo, Kris Bryant, Javier Baez and other stars were flipped to other teams.
Although it’s not a huge, long-term commitment, they are starting to make amends and announced an extension with talented infielder Nico Hoerner.
The second baseman and the Cubs agreed to a three-year, $35 million contract extension.
The new pact covers his last two arbitration years and one free agency season.
Per Jeff Passan of ESPN, the final two arbitration years were priced at around $15 million and the free agency year at around $20 million.
Cubs insider Jesse Rogers offered his take on the new contract for one of the building blocks in the organization.
“Only the second homegrown Cubs player to receive a contract extension since 2011. (David Bote, 2019). It’s not a Cub for life deal but its a nice payday for an emerging player who can revisit a longer one down the road if the sides choose,” he tweeted.
Only the second homegrown Cubs player to receive a contract extension since 2011. (David Bote, 2019). It's not a Cub for life deal but its a nice payday for an emerging player who can revisit a longer one down the road if the sides choose. https://t.co/1iGUdbiDFo
— Jesse Rogers (@JesseRogersESPN) March 28, 2023
Hoerner had a terrific 2022 with a .281 batting average, 60 runs, 10 homers, 55 RBI, 20 stolen bases, and a .737 OPS.
The offense gave him a nice floor as a player, but the defense is what really raises his ceiling.
The 25-year-old budding star had a 4.0 WAR (Wins Above Replacement) season last year, fueled by 10 Defensive Runs Saved (DRS) and 13 Outs Above Average (OAA) at shortstop.
He will slide to second base due to the presence of Dansby Swanson, but he should thrive there, too.
All things considered, the Cubs are giving one of their best young players a nice raise.
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