January 24, 2026

Chicago Cubs second baseman Nico Hoerner turned in a strong bounce-back showing in 2025. After finishing the 2024 season with a modest .273 AVG and a .708 OPS, Hoerner posted a much higher .297 AVG in 2025. However, the near-20-point jump in batting average slightly hindered his speed production, as he stole only 29 bags, compared to 31 the previous season. Despite the drop, this was his third-straight season swiping at least 29 bases, and he has even eclipsed the 30-SB mark in two of these three. He once again fell under the double-digit HR total, hitting seven, matching his total from 2024. Under the hood, the infielder generated a remarkable 98th percentile .292 xBA, suggesting a high-end batting average in 2026 could be sustainable. The 28-year-old also lowered his strikeout rate to a minuscule 7.6% place him within the 99th percentile among qualified hitters, which is also the best mark of his career. However, unlike last season, when Hoerner was being selected in the double-digit rounds, he carries a much higher 99.4 ADP on NFBC, going off as the No. 4 second baseman. While his batting average, runs, and stolen bases make him a high-end contributor at the position, he would need to be drafted on a roster that already has high HR and RBI projections, as he does not expect to contribute much in those categories. The Stanford product remains a top option in points leagues, given his low K rate and elite contact skills, but is best paired with high-end power hitters in standard leagues.--Andy Smith