As the Chicago Cubs look to come out of what they are terming a reloading process, locking in their core for the present and future will be of the utmost importance.
This is something that the Cubs are working on. According to reports, the Cubs are expected to discuss long term extensions with Ian Happ and Nico Hoerner this offseason.
Chicago Cubs looking to build long term core
There is some urgency in these talks, at least as it comes to Happ. He is slated to become a free agent after the 2023 campaign and would leave a gaping hole in the Cubs’ outfield. As he is 28 years old and earned his first trip to the All Star Game and a Gold Glove award, he would be someone that the Cubs would want as a long term option.
Happ did his part with the bat as well throughout his career. He has posted a .249/.339/.460 batting line with 104 homers and 116 doubles in his 2438 plate appearances. Happ has gone from a utility option who was forced into the outfield to becoming a valued left fielder, someone that the Cubs could build around.
Hoerner bounced back from an injury riddled 2021 campaign to put together his best season in the majors to this point. He posted a .281/.327/.410 batting line with ten homers and 22 doubles in his 517 plate appearances while stealing 20 bases. Hoerner also saved 11 runs at short last season, showing that he can be a key part of the Cubs’ future.
It is ultimately going to come down to how much the Cubs are offering. Happ could be in for a significant payday next offseason, especially if he replicates his performance from 2022. Hoerner is further away from free agency, but as he goes through arbitration, is less likely to be a bargain going forward. It makes sense for the Cubs to look to extend both now while they have the chance.
The Chicago Cubs are looking to lock in Ian Happ and Nico Hoerner to long term deals. It is time to start putting their future core together.