This MLB offseason has seen a number of prolonged and unresolved storylines, but none appears as drawn-out as the New York Yankees’ search for a second baseman.
Since parting ways with two-time All-Star Gleyber Torres—declining to offer him the $21.05 million qualifying offer that might have kept him in New York for at least another year—the Yankees have operated without a clear plan to replace their long-time middle infielder.
As Torres signed a one-year, $15 million contract with the Detroit Tigers, the Yankees have been linked to potential trades or signings involving Alex Bregman, Ha-Seong Kim from the San Diego Padres, former Dodgers second baseman Gavin Lux, and others.
However, despite all the rumors, the second base position at Yankee Stadium remains unfilled.
The latest trade prediction from Empire Sports Media’s Alexander Wilson suggests the Yankees may target Nico Hoerner, a 2023 Gold Glove winner and six-year veteran, currently in the second year of a three-year, $35 million deal with the Chicago Cubs.
Wilson argues that Hoerner, with two years remaining on his contract and a reasonable $11.67 million salary, represents a high-value asset who could make an immediate impact with his glove, speed, and bat. His contact-heavy approach and speed could make him a good fit at the top of the Yankees’ lineup.
Although Hoerner’s offensive stats may not be eye-popping—his OPS has declined each year, landing at .708 in 2024—his overall value is solid. His wRC+ of 103 in 2024 suggests he is slightly above league average, and it is expected to rise slightly to 106 in 2025.
In terms of Wins Above Replacement (WAR), Hoerner has been more valuable than Torres over their careers, with Hoerner averaging 4.5 WAR per 162 games compared to Torres’ 2.9.
In this proposed trade, the Yankees would give up two of their top prospects: Carlos Lagrange, a 21-year-old right-handed pitcher who has impressed since being signed out of the Dominican Republic, and Will Warren, the Yankees’ No. 5 prospect, a 26-year-old righty with six big league appearances.
Additionally, the Yankees would include journeyman pitcher Jake Cousins, who they acquired from the White Sox for cash last season and impressed with a 2.37 ERA and 53 strikeouts in 38 innings.
