Win my Nico Hoerner signed baseball: 1. Watch this video 2. Comment with your reasons why the Cubs should trade or keep Steele and Hoerner 3. Subscribe to our list at setupman.net
My two favorite players on the team but if they trade Steele, I will throw up. You have Steele in his prime for his age 29-33 seasons. Absolutely no reason to move him.
Do not trade Steele or hoerner Steele was great last season until his last couple starts this season on opening day he was doing great until he got injured sadly when he came back he has been good since he has the stuff to be the number 1 ace on every team on the mlb so keep him..!!! Now we should keep hoerner cause he gets on base he is great at defense and is young and he does have kinda some power and I think eventually he will me a 20 home runs and 35 stolen bases he has that stuff I will be so sad if either of them get traded I am a life long cub I love every single player on that roster I especially love Horner and Steele so we should really keep those two and sadly I think tailon is gonna get traded I really wish our team competed this season it’s really sad when u see players taht u love go away like when Rizzo, Baez, and Bryant were traded I was balling crying sadly so pls make this the best one so I can have my fav baseball players baseball pls guys!
Keep. Steele and Hoerner were both drafted and developed by this organization. We have seen them struggle at times, but most of all succeed here. Keep them as models for what we strive to grow. Going forward, we need big starters like Steele. Leaders like him. We will also need great defenders like Hoerner. Contact makers like him. They are Cubs. We need more of these kind of guys, not less. We are all VERY frustrated at the moment. But with these two and much more, we can be winners. Go Cubbies!!!
Trade Horner They could notice prospects that could be effective in the back of the bullpen. We need a stopper. I will be interested in a trade for three prospects, but I’ll have the potential to be a stopper and hopefully get the result of having a stopper plus one of the other two be an 8th inning guy. Do not trade steele. He’s one of the few guys on this team that is and has a greater potential to be a leader He’s one of the few guys that’s ultra competitive and has the make up of a winner. We need somebody that can set that tone to make a serious championship run next year and beyond
Cubs would get a very nice return for Nico Hoerner. His contract terms, age, gold glove, base running and bat skills make him a valuable target. Cubs need to make room for Matt Shaw, who I think would be a better fit at second than third base. Justin Steele would bring back a huge return as one of the best left handed pitchers in the game. Cubs could actually end up being better in 2025. They already have Wicks and Brown. Horton will be up at some point next year as well.
Hey Kyle, here is my takes: 1) Don't trade Steele! But if you trade Steele then go full rebuild an try to get either top 100 prospects or complimentary pieces for the next wave of prospects coming up! - exception to full rebuild is you move Steele and get Tarik Skubal to replace him(younger, also an Ace, 4 pitch pitcher, K's alot of batters)..I kinda hope we don't move Steele and still go for a move for Skubal anyhow. - the reason not to trade- it's hard to develop an Ace caliber player. We all hope Cade is that guy and if he is, then wouldn't it be great to have him become a 1a or 1b to compliment Steele in our rotation. Overall, no prospect is a sure fire thing. Some have the tools and can project well but never a guarantee. 2) I love Nico but trading him makes sense! - exception - if you can move Belli and Happ then I don't think you have to move Nico unless you just want this season to be given to the farm guys for experience. - trade nico for this reason, he has value and his value is higher because of the bat lately that aligns with what he did last season as well. We only have 2 more seasons at 11.5 mil per year and I think we may be able to improve the overall batting production with our farm guys...we have not just Shaw, but Morel could move there(not my favorite guy-trade him lol), as well as Triantos and if we wanted we could move Busch and maybe...Ballesteros plays some 1b??? Or that's where Cody plays permanently when he is back and not traded...or Pete Alonso signing or whomever...it's gives our farm system an opportunity to see who vsn really play at this level.
I would keep both, the NL central is not the hardest division if they buy a free market slugger or trade some relief for a couple of near ready players it would make more sense. Next season as you say with even an average offence the Cubs maybe able to compete and who knows when you get to the playoffs (look at the Rangers and Diamondbacks last year). If the current players move back to mean they are not far off making the playoffs. Morel especially has power maybe they could work on him or some winterball to improve contact and 3rd base skills. He seems a great guy in terms of attitude so praying he can turn it around with the Cubs rather than somewhere else. Steele is a leader, a great pitcher at a reasonable price and under club control. Ok he has 2 main pitches but he still seems to be controlling hitters and has had some injury issues which may have seen the dip a bit. It is really hard to get enough high quality pitching and you need this to compete and win games next year. Nico I would keep too, I don't believe he is the type of scream and shout leader but he leads by example by the way he carries himself and plays the game. He is a great defender and could play either 2nd or SS, he is also a contact bat which the cubs don't really have and you need in an offence. He is the sort of player that you want to extend rather than trade. He is probably the player I most admire in terms of attitude on the Cubs with Morel (in terms of attitude). It comes down to what the Cubs want to do for 2025 they will be in more or less rebuild for 2025 if they get a load of prospects and get rid of all their experienced staff. The fan base will be livid. Morel may improve hopefully, Shaw is coming. They are really 1 or 2 sluggers away from being really good although I'm guessing the bullpen will be traded and need to rebuild. DO NOT trade these 2 please!
The Cubs should trade Hoerner and Steele only if specific trade packages are put together. For Hoerner, Michael Bush's best position defensively is second base and they have James Triantos and Matt Shaw who would both be best at second base as well. The only reason they should trade him would be if the Los Angeles Dodgers offer a package that includes Dalton Rushing or Diego Cartaya to fill the large void at catcher for the future. The only other option for Hoerner, but much less likely, would be the same organization that would be the only destination for Steele. If the Baltimore Orioles offer a package that includes Samuel Basallo or Coby Mayo they need to consider it for Steele. The Cubs currently have a left handed heavy rotation with Steele, Imanaga, and Wicks. The only reason they should consider this at all would be because of the relationship between Craig Counsell and Corbin Burnes. The Cubs are going to have approximately 50 million dollars cap space freed up after this season and that's including if Bellinger isn't traded and options to stay in his contract. A sports illustrated report estimates Corbin Burnes will be given an eight year, $288mil contract. That's approximately $36mil a year. If the right package is secured for Steele and Hoerner between these two teams, the Cubs would possibly fill the holes at catcher and either third base or first base with enough money to secure an ace in the off season. The future rotation of Burnes, Imanaga, Cade Horton, Jordan Wicks, and Ben Brown/Javier Assad would be one of the best rotations in baseball. Both the Dodgers and Orioles need relief pitching too which would most likely have Neris going with Hoerner to LA and Mark Leiter Jr. going to Baltimore which would add reason to trade their top prospects. If neither of those teams offer a package including these players, I don't see any other teams that would offer anything close enough to replace the talent that Hoerner and Steele bring to the team. Anything less I would hold on to them.
Yes this!! Don't want to see those two be moved, if they are should also move on from other guys on big contracts too if possible but IF we can get Holliday and Mayo or Mayo and Basallo with other prospects its tough to turn that down. Especially when you can become buyers in the offseason after selling rn to kinda retool. I still want to believe in this core tho and give them the full season to then decide whether we start tearing it down or not.
I love Steele and I'd hate to see him traded, but you made some great points. I don't care if Nico gets traded. He is a great defensive player who we all thought would be a very good hitter, he isn't that this year. I'm at a point where I don't care who gets traded, I just don't want to see this same team back next year. I don't care who stays or who goes, I just want the Cubs to win and win in the post season.
I think I should keep both First of all, in the case of Steele, there are not many pitchers in our farm who can become Aces. It is difficult to find a prospect who can sell and fill steele. I think Horner should be kept because of his defensive versatility. Bush has settled in well at first base, and Matt Shaw and Triantos is not yet at MLB level. It won't be too late to decide to sell by the time those two come up.
Through just about the same at bats at a younger age in AA, Triantos is having pretty much the exact same season that Nico did when he was in AA in 2019 at a younger age. Triantos actually gets the nod due to more SB and more HR. Not only do the Cubs have good options to replace him on the roster, they HAVE a younger Nico with more power but not quite as good on D in the system. Love the dude, but it's a trade vote for me
WE NEED TO KEEP BOTH JS IS A CY YOUNG CALIBER AND HE IS STILL GONNA BE GOOD FOR ANOTHER 4-5 YRS He is also the leader of our clubhouse NICO: he is the face of the franchise right now other than PCA he is one of the best fielders if not the best middle infielder in the league. He doesn’t strikeout, and he still has more pop than he has shown so far. SO WE NEED TO KEEP BOTH
I really hope we don’t trade Steele. However, if we trade Horner, I understand. We have some guys in the minor leagues blocked by him right now, and if we were to trade Nico, we could move Busch to second and be active in the first base market. Maybe have Shaw/Mastrobouni at third. Or even look into free agency. I also don’t see Morel still being on the team, I think he’ll get involved in either the Taillon or Horner trade
KEEP STEELE/ Legit ace, doesn't rely on velocity so age doesn't matter and im sure won't demand top level $ so can be extended w/ rsnable contract, leadership will be needed for prospects coming up TRADE NICO/ Solid trade return, Matt shaw call up soon, depth in that position, kind of know what kind of player he is (high quality defender/decent bat) it will hurt bc of what nico represents but if big run doesn't come asap it's for the best Just subscribed to ur website too
Keep Steele because a TOR pitcher is not easy to find. Steele is a dawg worth building a contender around. Unless blown away by an offer, keep Steele. Nico is one of my favorite players but he is expendable because of Shaw and Triantos. Definitely worth listening to offers for Nico but I hope he stays.
I am a huge fan of both players. But there is something off with the chemistry this year. Of the entire team. I would like to say it's all Craig Counsell's fault… But I'm actually not sure about that. Whether it is his fault or not, I think we need a shake up. I don't think there's anything necessarily wrong with letting a team know that you're not necessarily safe with your spot on our roster if you are not producing. Now mind you… Nico and Justin are both producing, but I say let's get great value for both of them at the point where the value is there to be had and let's shake this team up. Let's do a little shake n' bake. Let's see how the chicken tastes after that. If we don't trade them… It's just more of the same this year. Something has to give. So let's try this!
Okie here’s my evaluation. Keep Nico and Trade Steele Here’s my process. Nico has more value than just his slash line. He can from here on out be a utility option at SS and 3rd if needed without him losing a step in the positions defensively. He’s a leader by performance. He may not be the jumpstart like you mentioned but he’s young enough to ride him as a maneuverable starter around the INF. That may relieve Shaw who’s arm is unsure at 3rd but can start now come ‘25. This would eliminate a gap signing like Gio Urshela. This also puts Swanson in a perform better or you’ll be our next Heyward. His defensive has gotten better as this years gone on, but we pay him to be more than a Golden Glove defender. We want his slash line to be better, even if his power is never what it was on the Braves. The lineup ATL had compared to ours now doesn’t make Dansby have better chances in the lineup due to who’s behind him in the order. No one wants his contract UNLESS Dodgers cans play infield but still they’d send us Ferris and a few more prospects for Nico so why take Swanson. Nico is that top of the lineup batter we need to fit with Ian and Belli which do better when they have motivation from previous batters in the inning. But compared to Nico. Your points about Steele are phenomenal. He’s an Ace but his stuff is mid. He can beat great lineups but defense helps(or kills) his start. Justin is that leader, and another team will want that. The Orioles will be the most likely to trade for because they have a young team who needs that leader more than the Yankees who just want that pitcher. We could throw Mastro in with him and maybe 1 bottom 15 of top 30 prospect to get Holliday. I’ve asked Matt Cozzi and Sam Olbur if Tallion and Nico gets Holiday. And would we want it. That would change a lot of our rebuild… a blue chip finally. Steele won’t bring a 98 mph fastball into spring training, he’s not gonna learn a new devastating pitch. He’s a grinder. And they are not Aces. But next to Burnes he’d be a 1/2 R/L deadly combo and they’d extend that if they have a decent playoff run because of it. But seriously whoever we bring in we still need someone to change the demeanor of PCA changing his mindset… his speed and aggression definitely is awesome but if you try acting like Soto but you bat like Mastrobuoni somethings off in your head… maybe if when you’re 27 you’ll be able to pump your stick a bit but… he’s not HIM. Hope I win. Nico is my favorite too but he’s not a liability. And the veteran we need who’s not old.
Trade: Nico Hoerner to the Reds for Johnathan India….India can play third and second…above average fielder at both positions with more of an impact bat in the Cubs lineup…. Keep Steele….unless you can pair him up with a Tauchman and get a franchise changing player with maybe a low a prospect thrown in.
I realize the Reds are in the NL Central but trades have happened before LHP Marshall for LHP Wood happened…maybe 2B/SS Hoerner for 2B/3B/SS India could be a low risk low cost move for both teams
I think Steele makes more sense to trade than Nico, he has a potential for huge immediate impact for a prospective team. Nico I think should be a hold. Does he bring a much better prospect to the table with his skill set (contact, defense first, base running etc). I’m concerned that he doesn’t bring more value in a prospect than he currently has to the team. I guess it depends on what you might get.
Over the years, have we ever seen a successful version of the cubs that did not have a legit lead off man? Maybe once? I'd say that despite Nico's regression BA-wise, his OBP is what makes in most valuable hitting #1. It's because this type of hitter is so hard to find that I say we have to keep him. Trading Steele would be an Oakland-esque type of move, and I just don't see ownership being cool with a significant drop in performance for the 2025 season. Lastly, the club is constantly bringing up hitters too early. Give Matt Shaw another year, and teach him 3rd base for all of our sakes!
I think we should keep Steele and Nico because they will be valuable for next year and beyond. Even if we traded then now I doubt we would get anyone that would help us in the near future. Just trading for prospects isn't reliable because you never know how many of them will be usable major league players.
This is a tough decision. Let's assume the Cubs are indeed trying to compete in 2025 and 2026 seriously. The Cubs have the pitching currently to do so Operating under the "win soon" selling this week: 1) you start with selling Taillon (this should hopefully net 2 top 10-20 or 1 top 5-6 org prospects who are ready/close to MLBfrom a contender). Taillon is having his best season, hot now, in a very weak market for SP arms. At $20M next year, he's not worth that if he regresses/injuries at all,which history shows he will. Your rotation is still great without him(Steele, Imanaga, Brown, Assad, Horton '25) 2) Nico seems he has to go, in my opinion. 2B is your deepest org position(Shaw, Triantos, Morel if Shaw can play third, possibly Busch of Cubs go after a big time 1B). Nico is a high value, would get good return, club friendly cost and control. Lots of teams with banged up/lacking middle Inf that would improve with his GG and usually average hitting bat(Dodgers, Red Sox, Mariners). Sell if there is a good return(a developing Catcher or a few young good Pitchers with upside). 3) Steele. This is complicated, for all the reasons you stated(team friendly contract/control, high yield for the money. One reason, other than being very good usually, to keep him is he seems like one of your very few clubhouse leaders. I'm concerned there is no one else in there that's firing people up(at least there isn't on the field/dugout). If you want to contend in 2025, you have to have a vocal leader, and no one else in then pitching staff, and possibly the positions/hitters seem to be either (for this reason I have Happ on my "yes" trade list as his physical tools will continue to decline as an OF and baserunner). I am a NO for trading Steele. Unless!; you are offered the most elusive critical needs the Cubs have that they can't fill internally and there aren't FAs for- an elite Catcher+ at least 1, maybe 2 high upside P, or an elite 3B + P prospects from the following: -Orioles (Casallo or Mayo + a pitcher) -Red Sox (Teel+ a pitcher) -Mariners (Ford + 1-2 pitchers) All of the above elite top 50 overall prospects are blocked by good catchers/3B, and at least the O's/Sox are desperate for a high level SP(Boston or Seattle might take Nico, too for massive haul!) So Steele...only if it completely changes the organization at C and/or 3B and younger some young arms to hopefully build more depth in minors(and then you shop for a FA pitcher with your savings from Steele, Taillon, Hoerner (or Happ).
Keep Steele because he is a unicorn starter that will be impossible to replace. His skill, leadership, cost and determination are rare qualities in a starter these days. He's the anchor of the pitching staff and replacing his overall profile would cost 100M+ in free agency. Trade Nico because he just hasn't lived up to the expectations, fair or not, that the team and fan base have put on him. Also, we have multiple options at 2nd base and shortstop that should provide similar or better performance to Nico. Lastly, Nico is a really good player who is young and controllable at a cheap price. His value in a trade is probably at its highest right now. The only way it would increase is if his offensive numbers increase considerably, and then you don't want to trade him. Get what we can while we can. That's always my policy in trading players. Don't let emotions enter the picture. Go Cubs Go!
Do Not Trade Justin Steele. You dont trade your ace unless it is a total team rebuild. He is a rock and a Leader. Get a true 3rd baseman STUD thru a signing. Same thing with a catcher, if it is do able? Are their any good catchers coming up for new contracts this winter?
Good morning. I would keep Justin Steele. Although we are 5.5 out on the wildcard, Imanaga, Steele, & Taillon would present a good chance for a quality start in the event of a miracle. Any team could still hit the injury bug as the Cubs have. Starting pitching is key. Trade Nico Hoerner. We can't keep running the same line up out and expect different results. The Cubs just can't hit as a whole. We have depth for second and we need a shake up. We have money coming off the books with Stroman, Barnhart, Mancini, Bote and any contracts concluding after the 24 season. Let's move on with position player trades or call up from the farm system. Keep our pitching and upgrade our position players. Also, we are only 3M away from the threshold per COTS, pending any bonus money, it would really stink to loose and go over the salary cap.
If they trade Steele they better get a huge return. Don't trust Hoyer for a minute who knows what that clown will do. So tired about hearing about these prospects we have no idea what they can do in the big show. We don't need anymore PCAs. Unproven prospects are a waste
Ok first thing...I would keep Steele. This organization probably needs to compete next year for Jed to keep his job. His contract expires next year. Steele has 3 more years after this year. Im not sure any team would pay the steep price it would take to get Steele. So few star players are moved with that much control. Im not against moving him though down the road. Nico i would move. He drives me nuts because theres so much talent there and he doesnt know how to harness it. As a leadoff hitter he fails because while he doesnt strike out a lot but he also doesnt walk. He has a bad chase rate...but because of his elite bat speed and cordination he doesnt strike out...he just hits a lot of weak contact. Its a shame because he has now had great success getting the ball in the air this year. Baseball savant shows a huge improvement in launch angle. If he would just take his walks and let the pitches come to him he would show power and he would be one of the best in the game. Shaw may lack Hoerners defense but he makes up with the bat. He has a patient approach with good power and takes his walks. He could very well be the leadoff hitter I wanted Nico to be. Plus who knows...he may surprise us defensively. Nico was never rated that great a defender and look at him now.
The Cubs cannot keep blocking their top prospects. An OF needs to go, either Happ or Suzuki. Belli needs to be a salary dump. However, Jed likes to keep things close to vest. I think he will trade Steele and keep Taillon. The Dodgers would be a logical trade partner. Their top prospect is a C/1B, Dalton Rushing. I would also get Jackson Ferris back. Finally, the Dodgers could add another pitching prospect- River Ryan or Nick Frasso. The Cubs will go after Corbin Burnes as a FA. Burnes, Imanaga, Taillon would provide a great top of the rotation. Add Wicks, Assad or Brown to round it out.
I get the allure of getting an absolute haul for Steele. But yeah, I don't think they are trading Steele. Just hope they get at least one really good prospect for Taillon.
Trade Steele: The Cubs can trade Steele and they can get a great deal for him that can help out the Cubs. They can get a position player that can hit well and field well to help the Cubs in the future. The Cubs can make Shota Imanaga their ace because his ERA for his first six starts was a 0.78, that is ace material. His ERA is still the best on the Cubs starting rotation. They also have Ben Brown and Hayden Wesneski who are almost starter material. Ben Brown’s ERA is a 3.59 and Hayden Wesneski’s ERA is a 3.97. By next year, I’m sure one of them will be a starter. Keep Hoerner: Horner is a great contact hitter, he has been improving at the plate since the start of the season. His batting average is .257, which is ok for a contact hitter, so I don’t think trading him will be good for the Cubs because they wouldn’t get much for him. This is his second worst year batting average wise, so it is a down year. He needs to be put down more in the lineup so he can drive in runs because he puts the ball in play a lot. He is also young so he has time to improve and get better and make sure he is playing well.
Keep steele homegrown kid and has been our best pitcher for a while now and still has alot of control which could cause a big haul but can adjust well. Trade Nico because he is not as clutch as we thought and if he isn’t hitting for average and getting on he really has no value besides his glove which he can play ss.
KEEP!!! Steele is the only one on this whole team with any passion! We need guys like that!! It might not show up in the stats, but we're seeing what happens when a baseball team doesn't care! Nico we should also keep as his weaknesses will be shored up by developing or bringing in some hitters with brass + he's homegrown.
Justin Steele: Keep- Big yell Trade- Thin beard Nico Hoerner: Keep: Signed ball paradox Trade: I’m used to having my heart broken If you can’t tell, I don’t really want to win❤
Trade Hoerner because of the Organizational Depth at 2B and to address need areas on the roster , Steele You Keep unless absolutely blown away by an overpay
Who says either Shaw or Triantos will be as good as Nico? None of this “core” hasn’t proof anything. If PCA was the best, I don’t want to imagine “how good” are the others, down there.
@@rafaellopez5565 ok raf, we will trade nobody, spend the next decade with a team subpar .500 and block all the prospects which we drafted or traded for, and then we can listen to you complain. I dont want to imagine"how pathetic" your clueless idea is here.
trading steele would be a massive mistake unless completely blown away by an offer. as for nico his days are definitely numbered. With the addition of Isaac Paredes Matt Shaw and Triantos are blocked by Nico. Maybe trade nico for a young controllable arm.
Trade Nico … keep Steele … more help at 2nd in the minors .. Steele can be built around in the rotation. But … if someone blows us away anyone is available.
Keep Steele he has been reliable for these past 2 years and has shown maturity and adjusts well to the league We should sell Nico because we have prospects like Shaw and trintos that could take his spot in the future and we need to get these AAA guys mlb reps
Absolutely keep Steele, No ifs ands or buts about it. He is a stud and the ace of our rotation for years to come. I would be a lot happier trading away Taillon and using our SP depth to replace him (Who says no to Cade Horton on the 2025 opening day roster?) I also wouldn't trade Nico because the upcoming FA class for 2nd basemen is pretty meh, and having that gold glove defense from Nico and Dansby up the middle I feel is very valuable. I understand the cubs have lots of very good infield prospects, like Shaw and Triantos, but those guys are both still VERY young and Triantos especially I feel could use some more time in AA and AAA before he is ready. The ONLY way I would trade Nico is for a large overpay I know 3rd base is an issue that needs to be addressed, but the 2025 FA class is very weak, especially for infielders. Shaw and Morel can switch off at 3rd next season
When is the last time the cubs have drafted AND developed a home grown ace? it's been a long time. Guys like that don't grow on trees. Not only do you clearly keep him but look into extending him so he can be a mentor for the young arms coming up to join him. When it comes to nico, it's clearly the perfect time to trade him. Not only because there are two top 100 prospects that are ready soon to take his spot. But you would be selling high, reloading the farm system , and all while freeing up money to attack the off season to fill the holes
They should absolutely NOT trade Steele OR Hoerner! Steele is arguably the ace of this starting rotation along with Imanaga and he’s under control for 3 more years! Hoerner is a gold glove winning second baseman and he’s having a down year offensively.. he’s too good of a defender and contact hitter to give up on him right now.. if they trade Hoerner who would play second base?? Morel?! Please GOD no!!! Trade Bellinger.. Taillon.. Neris.. Smyly.. dump salary! not valuable pieces of this roster.
I hope the cubs don’t trade Nico or Steele because those guys are pretty much the faces of this organization and they’ve been part of the team for awhile and are home grown players. As for who to trade I do have to say that I would much rather part ways with Cody Bellinger, Christopher Morel, Jameson Taillon, and Kyle Hendricks alongside some farm pieces like Alexander Canario, James Triantos, and Matt Mervis
I am partial on Nico depending on what the reward is. I think he's just having a slightly off year and Him and Swanson are the best Infield combo. Steele is a NoNo
Keep Justin, can't just go out and fund an Ace. Trade Nico, he's been a huge disappointment and they have Busch or Morel to play 2B, then put Belli at 1B. Nico would thrive in LA or NYY, go get a ring Nico!
Hoerner: Sell He hasn't developed any power, he's cost controlled and you have plenty of internal replacement candidates (Morel, Bote, Shaw and Triantos). Steele: Sell (but only if someone gives you a haul) He's almost 30, he basically only throws 2 pitches, he lacks Velo and he potentially has massive value. Bellinger: SELL + SELL + SELL If someone offers you more than a used fungo bat, scream SOLD at them.
1. Keeping Nico Hoerner: Since he got called up in 2019, Nico Hoerner has been a consistent competitor on this roster. As bad as the Cubs have been in some of these past years, the finger is never pointed at Nico as a problem. His glove is elite, and hes a great guy in the leadoff spot and should continue to fulfill that role as he is everything you look for in a good Chicago Cub. 2. Keeping Justin Steele: Man this guy reminds me of Lester. Hes so competitive and he cares about the team so much. That game against Milwaukee just showed the passion that this guy has on and off the mound. I feel like hes a great piece as he came up through the Cubs system and genuinely is a guy to build a team around. 3. Who we should trade instead: In my eyes Jameson Taillon is easily the best option to trade at the moment. Hes had an up and down career and is currently dealing better than he ever has. He would be a great addition to a playoff contender as he is a veteran of the league and he has playoff experience with the Yankees
Here is my take: Keep Steele otherwise for next 3 years the Cubs will try to find next Steele. He has passion and leadership for winning. It does not make any sense to trade Steele, he is our ACE! For Nico, trade him. Michael Busch can replace him. Nico Hoerner Position: 2B/SS Games Played: 93 Batting Average: .251 On-Base Percentage (OBP): .323 Slugging Percentage (SLG): .359 Home Runs (HR): 4 RBIs: 34 Stolen Bases (SB): 18 Walk Percentage (BB%): 8.1% Strikeout Percentage (K%): 16.2% Weighted Runs Created Plus (wRC+): 90 Michael Busch Position: 1B Games Played: 84 Batting Average: .237 On-Base Percentage (OBP): .325 Slugging Percentage (SLG): .409 Home Runs (HR): 11 RBIs: 39 Stolen Bases (SB): 5 Walk Percentage (BB%): 11.5% Strikeout Percentage (K%): 24.0% Weighted Runs Created Plus (wRC+): 107 Hoerner is known for his contact hitting and defensive versatility, while Busch provides more power and a higher walk rate but also strikes out more frequently.
It will be interesting to see exactly who will be left after we traded the core. The Robertson / Brown trade might be the best one. The Kimbrel trade is already proven that nothing worked on that one. We will see
NICO, yes, he's been a Cub for a while now, and the Cubs get no better. He has a good glove but no bat. Steele, no, he's exactly what you want in a pitcher.
The team is so horribly put together that it will take years (with a good gm and an owner whose wallet doesn't squeak when opening it) to make them viable. I don't see anything good coming from this organization. Hard for me to care what they do right now.
And replace their production with who ? Unproven prospects ? Makes no sense , I'd rather see Happ go , and Madrigal, and Amaya and some of those bullpen slugs . And here you are talking 2 or 3 years down the road . Same nonsense as Hoyer . More seasons of mediocrity .
Hoyer is the worst. Can’t win without Theo. Keeps pretending that “we’ll keep the core together” and make some trades. Nico and Steele are not the problem. Hoyer and CounciL are the problem. He picked the wrong guys to give big contracts. There is no star in the lineup and no closer.
Dude thank you for speaking the truth I been saying justin is not a ace on a good team he is out performing hes numbers he will decline he will get figured out and everytime I bring it up i get just shitted on
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My two favorite players on the team but if they trade Steele, I will throw up.
You have Steele in his prime for his age 29-33 seasons. Absolutely no reason to move him.
You have steele under control through age 31
Do not trade Steele or hoerner Steele was great last season until his last couple starts this season on opening day he was doing great until he got injured sadly when he came back he has been good since he has the stuff to be the number 1 ace on every team on the mlb so keep him..!!! Now we should keep hoerner cause he gets on base he is great at defense and is young and he does have kinda some power and I think eventually he will me a 20 home runs and 35 stolen bases he has that stuff I will be so sad if either of them get traded I am a life long cub I love every single player on that roster I especially love Horner and Steele so we should really keep those two and sadly I think tailon is gonna get traded I really wish our team competed this season it’s really sad when u see players taht u love go away like when Rizzo, Baez, and Bryant were traded I was balling crying sadly so pls make this the best one so I can have my fav baseball players baseball pls guys!
Keep. Steele and Hoerner were both drafted and developed by this organization. We have seen them struggle at times, but most of all succeed here. Keep them as models for what we strive to grow. Going forward, we need big starters like Steele. Leaders like him. We will also need great defenders like Hoerner. Contact makers like him. They are Cubs. We need more of these kind of guys, not less. We are all VERY frustrated at the moment. But with these two and much more, we can be winners. Go Cubbies!!!
Exactly!!! dump salary.. trade Bellinger, Smyly, Neris.. even Taillon.. make payroll room for free agency this winter
Trade Horner
They could notice prospects that could be effective in the back of the bullpen. We need a stopper. I will be interested in a trade for three prospects, but I’ll have the potential to be a stopper and hopefully get the result of having a stopper plus one of the other two be an 8th inning guy.
Do not trade steele.
He’s one of the few guys on this team that is and has a greater potential to be a leader
He’s one of the few guys that’s ultra competitive and has the make up of a winner.
We need somebody that can set that tone to make a serious championship run next year and beyond
Cubs would get a very nice return for Nico Hoerner. His contract terms, age, gold glove, base running and bat skills make him a valuable target. Cubs need to make room for Matt Shaw, who I think would be a better fit at second than third base.
Justin Steele would bring back a huge return as one of the best left handed pitchers in the game.
Cubs could actually end up being better in 2025. They already have Wicks and Brown. Horton will be up at some point next year as well.
Hey Kyle, here is my takes:
1) Don't trade Steele! But if you trade Steele then go full rebuild an try to get either top 100 prospects or complimentary pieces for the next wave of prospects coming up!
- exception to full rebuild is you move Steele and get Tarik Skubal to replace him(younger, also an Ace, 4 pitch pitcher, K's alot of batters)..I kinda hope we don't move Steele and still go for a move for Skubal anyhow.
- the reason not to trade- it's hard to develop an Ace caliber player. We all hope Cade is that guy and if he is, then wouldn't it be great to have him become a 1a or 1b to compliment Steele in our rotation. Overall, no prospect is a sure fire thing. Some have the tools and can project well but never a guarantee.
2) I love Nico but trading him makes sense!
- exception - if you can move Belli and Happ then I don't think you have to move Nico unless you just want this season to be given to the farm guys for experience.
- trade nico for this reason, he has value and his value is higher because of the bat lately that aligns with what he did last season as well. We only have 2 more seasons at 11.5 mil per year and I think we may be able to improve the overall batting production with our farm guys...we have not just Shaw, but Morel could move there(not my favorite guy-trade him lol), as well as Triantos and if we wanted we could move Busch and maybe...Ballesteros plays some 1b??? Or that's where Cody plays permanently when he is back and not traded...or Pete Alonso signing or whomever...it's gives our farm system an opportunity to see who vsn really play at this level.
I would keep both, the NL central is not the hardest division if they buy a free market slugger or trade some relief for a couple of near ready players it would make more sense. Next season as you say with even an average offence the Cubs maybe able to compete and who knows when you get to the playoffs (look at the Rangers and Diamondbacks last year). If the current players move back to mean they are not far off making the playoffs. Morel especially has power maybe they could work on him or some winterball to improve contact and 3rd base skills. He seems a great guy in terms of attitude so praying he can turn it around with the Cubs rather than somewhere else.
Steele is a leader, a great pitcher at a reasonable price and under club control. Ok he has 2 main pitches but he still seems to be controlling hitters and has had some injury issues which may have seen the dip a bit. It is really hard to get enough high quality pitching and you need this to compete and win games next year.
Nico I would keep too, I don't believe he is the type of scream and shout leader but he leads by example by the way he carries himself and plays the game. He is a great defender and could play either 2nd or SS, he is also a contact bat which the cubs don't really have and you need in an offence. He is the sort of player that you want to extend rather than trade. He is probably the player I most admire in terms of attitude on the Cubs with Morel (in terms of attitude).
It comes down to what the Cubs want to do for 2025 they will be in more or less rebuild for 2025 if they get a load of prospects and get rid of all their experienced staff. The fan base will be livid. Morel may improve hopefully, Shaw is coming. They are really 1 or 2 sluggers away from being really good although I'm guessing the bullpen will be traded and need to rebuild. DO NOT trade these 2 please!
do not trade either ! they’re too good and we’re not that far off
The Cubs should trade Hoerner and Steele only if specific trade packages are put together. For Hoerner, Michael Bush's best position defensively is second base and they have James Triantos and Matt Shaw who would both be best at second base as well. The only reason they should trade him would be if the Los Angeles Dodgers offer a package that includes Dalton Rushing or Diego Cartaya to fill the large void at catcher for the future. The only other option for Hoerner, but much less likely, would be the same organization that would be the only destination for Steele. If the Baltimore Orioles offer a package that includes Samuel Basallo or Coby Mayo they need to consider it for Steele. The Cubs currently have a left handed heavy rotation with Steele, Imanaga, and Wicks. The only reason they should consider this at all would be because of the relationship between Craig Counsell and Corbin Burnes. The Cubs are going to have approximately 50 million dollars cap space freed up after this season and that's including if Bellinger isn't traded and options to stay in his contract. A sports illustrated report estimates Corbin Burnes will be given an eight year, $288mil contract. That's approximately $36mil a year. If the right package is secured for Steele and Hoerner between these two teams, the Cubs would possibly fill the holes at catcher and either third base or first base with enough money to secure an ace in the off season. The future rotation of Burnes, Imanaga, Cade Horton, Jordan Wicks, and Ben Brown/Javier Assad would be one of the best rotations in baseball. Both the Dodgers and Orioles need relief pitching too which would most likely have Neris going with Hoerner to LA and Mark Leiter Jr. going to Baltimore which would add reason to trade their top prospects. If neither of those teams offer a package including these players, I don't see any other teams that would offer anything close enough to replace the talent that Hoerner and Steele bring to the team. Anything less I would hold on to them.
Yes this!! Don't want to see those two be moved, if they are should also move on from other guys on big contracts too if possible but IF we can get Holliday and Mayo or Mayo and Basallo with other prospects its tough to turn that down. Especially when you can become buyers in the offseason after selling rn to kinda retool. I still want to believe in this core tho and give them the full season to then decide whether we start tearing it down or not.
I love Steele and I'd hate to see him traded, but you made some great points. I don't care if Nico gets traded. He is a great defensive player who we all thought would be a very good hitter, he isn't that this year. I'm at a point where I don't care who gets traded, I just don't want to see this same team back next year. I don't care who stays or who goes, I just want the Cubs to win and win in the post season.
I think I should keep both
First of all, in the case of Steele, there are not many pitchers in our farm who can become Aces.
It is difficult to find a prospect who can sell and fill steele.
I think Horner should be kept because of his defensive versatility.
Bush has settled in well at first base, and Matt Shaw and Triantos is not yet at MLB level.
It won't be too late to decide to sell by the time those two come up.
Through just about the same at bats at a younger age in AA, Triantos is having pretty much the exact same season that Nico did when he was in AA in 2019 at a younger age. Triantos actually gets the nod due to more SB and more HR. Not only do the Cubs have good options to replace him on the roster, they HAVE a younger Nico with more power but not quite as good on D in the system. Love the dude, but it's a trade vote for me
WE NEED TO KEEP BOTH
JS IS A CY YOUNG CALIBER AND HE IS STILL GONNA BE GOOD FOR ANOTHER 4-5 YRS
He is also the leader of our clubhouse
NICO: he is the face of the franchise right now other than PCA he is one of the best fielders if not the best middle infielder in the league. He doesn’t strikeout, and he still has more pop than he has shown so far. SO WE NEED TO KEEP BOTH
I really hope we don’t trade Steele. However, if we trade Horner, I understand. We have some guys in the minor leagues blocked by him right now, and if we were to trade Nico, we could move Busch to second and be active in the first base market. Maybe have Shaw/Mastrobouni at third. Or even look into free agency. I also don’t see Morel still being on the team, I think he’ll get involved in either the Taillon or Horner trade
KEEP STEELE/ Legit ace, doesn't rely on velocity so age doesn't matter and im sure won't demand top level $ so can be extended w/ rsnable contract, leadership will be needed for prospects coming up
TRADE NICO/ Solid trade return, Matt shaw call up soon, depth in that position, kind of know what kind of player he is (high quality defender/decent bat) it will hurt bc of what nico represents but if big run doesn't come asap it's for the best
Just subscribed to ur website too
Trade them then fire Hoyer!!
Keep Steele because a TOR pitcher is not easy to find. Steele is a dawg worth building a contender around. Unless blown away by an offer, keep Steele. Nico is one of my favorite players but he is expendable because of Shaw and Triantos. Definitely worth listening to offers for Nico but I hope he stays.
I am a huge fan of both players. But there is something off with the chemistry this year. Of the entire team. I would like to say it's all Craig Counsell's fault… But I'm actually not sure about that. Whether it is his fault or not, I think we need a shake up. I don't think there's anything necessarily wrong with letting a team know that you're not necessarily safe with your spot on our roster if you are not producing. Now mind you… Nico and Justin are both producing, but I say let's get great value for both of them at the point where the value is there to be had and let's shake this team up. Let's do a little shake n' bake. Let's see how the chicken tastes after that. If we don't trade them… It's just more of the same this year. Something has to give. So let's try this!
Okie here’s my evaluation.
Keep Nico and Trade Steele
Here’s my process. Nico has more value than just his slash line. He can from here on out be a utility option at SS and 3rd if needed without him losing a step in the positions defensively. He’s a leader by performance. He may not be the jumpstart like you mentioned but he’s young enough to ride him as a maneuverable starter around the INF. That may relieve Shaw who’s arm is unsure at 3rd but can start now come ‘25. This would eliminate a gap signing like Gio Urshela.
This also puts Swanson in a perform better or you’ll be our next Heyward. His defensive has gotten better as this years gone on, but we pay him to be more than a Golden Glove defender. We want his slash line to be better, even if his power is never what it was on the Braves. The lineup ATL had compared to ours now doesn’t make Dansby have better chances in the lineup due to who’s behind him in the order. No one wants his contract UNLESS Dodgers cans play infield but still they’d send us Ferris and a few more prospects for Nico so why take Swanson.
Nico is that top of the lineup batter we need to fit with Ian and Belli which do better when they have motivation from previous batters in the inning.
But compared to Nico. Your points about Steele are phenomenal. He’s an Ace but his stuff is mid. He can beat great lineups but defense helps(or kills) his start.
Justin is that leader, and another team will want that. The Orioles will be the most likely to trade for because they have a young team who needs that leader more than the Yankees who just want that pitcher. We could throw Mastro in with him and maybe 1 bottom 15 of top 30 prospect to get Holliday. I’ve asked Matt Cozzi and Sam Olbur if Tallion and Nico gets Holiday. And would we want it. That would change a lot of our rebuild… a blue chip finally.
Steele won’t bring a 98 mph fastball into spring training, he’s not gonna learn a new devastating pitch. He’s a grinder. And they are not Aces.
But next to Burnes he’d be a 1/2 R/L deadly combo and they’d extend that if they have a decent playoff run because of it.
But seriously whoever we bring in we still need someone to change the demeanor of PCA changing his mindset… his speed and aggression definitely is awesome but if you try acting like Soto but you bat like Mastrobuoni somethings off in your head… maybe if when you’re 27 you’ll be able to pump your stick a bit but… he’s not HIM.
Hope I win. Nico is my favorite too but he’s not a liability. And the veteran we need who’s not old.
Trade: Nico Hoerner to the Reds for Johnathan India….India can play third and second…above average fielder at both positions with more of an impact bat in the Cubs lineup….
Keep Steele….unless you can pair him up with a Tauchman and get a franchise changing player with maybe a low a prospect thrown in.
I realize the Reds are in the NL Central but trades have happened before LHP Marshall for LHP Wood happened…maybe 2B/SS Hoerner for 2B/3B/SS India could be a low risk low cost move for both teams
If the cubs think they can compete next year you keep Steele. If we the cubs are lacking next year then you trade.
Nico is a must trade
I think Steele makes more sense to trade than Nico, he has a potential for huge immediate impact for a prospective team. Nico I think should be a hold. Does he bring a much better prospect to the table with his skill set (contact, defense first, base running etc). I’m concerned that he doesn’t bring more value in a prospect than he currently has to the team. I guess it depends on what you might get.
Over the years, have we ever seen a successful version of the cubs that did not have a legit lead off man? Maybe once? I'd say that despite Nico's regression BA-wise, his OBP is what makes in most valuable hitting #1. It's because this type of hitter is so hard to find that I say we have to keep him. Trading Steele would be an Oakland-esque type of move, and I just don't see ownership being cool with a significant drop in performance for the 2025 season. Lastly, the club is constantly bringing up hitters too early. Give Matt Shaw another year, and teach him 3rd base for all of our sakes!
I think we should keep Steele and Nico because they will be valuable for next year and beyond. Even if we traded then now I doubt we would get anyone that would help us in the near future. Just trading for prospects isn't reliable because you never know how many of them will be usable major league players.
This is a tough decision.
Let's assume the Cubs are indeed trying to compete in 2025 and 2026 seriously.
The Cubs have the pitching currently to do so
Operating under the "win soon" selling this week:
1) you start with selling Taillon (this should hopefully net 2 top 10-20 or 1 top 5-6 org prospects who are ready/close to MLBfrom a contender). Taillon is having his best season, hot now, in a very weak market for SP arms. At $20M next year, he's not worth that if he regresses/injuries at all,which history shows he will. Your rotation is still great without him(Steele, Imanaga, Brown, Assad, Horton '25)
2) Nico seems he has to go, in my opinion. 2B is your deepest org position(Shaw, Triantos, Morel if Shaw can play third, possibly Busch of Cubs go after a big time 1B). Nico is a high value, would get good return, club friendly cost and control. Lots of teams with banged up/lacking middle Inf that would improve with his GG and usually average hitting bat(Dodgers, Red Sox, Mariners). Sell if there is a good return(a developing Catcher or a few young good Pitchers with upside).
3) Steele. This is complicated, for all the reasons you stated(team friendly contract/control, high yield for the money.
One reason, other than being very good usually, to keep him is he seems like one of your very few clubhouse leaders. I'm concerned there is no one else in there that's firing people up(at least there isn't on the field/dugout). If you want to contend in 2025, you have to have a vocal leader, and no one else in then pitching staff, and possibly the positions/hitters seem to be either (for this reason I have Happ on my "yes" trade list as his physical tools will continue to decline as an OF and baserunner).
I am a NO for trading Steele. Unless!; you are offered the most elusive critical needs the Cubs have that they can't fill internally and there aren't FAs for- an elite Catcher+ at least 1, maybe 2 high upside P, or an elite 3B + P prospects from the following:
-Orioles (Casallo or Mayo + a pitcher)
-Red Sox (Teel+ a pitcher)
-Mariners (Ford + 1-2 pitchers)
All of the above elite top 50 overall prospects are blocked by good catchers/3B, and at least the O's/Sox are desperate for a high level SP(Boston or Seattle might take Nico, too for massive haul!)
So Steele...only if it completely changes the organization at C and/or 3B and younger some young arms to hopefully build more depth in minors(and then you shop for a FA pitcher with your savings from Steele, Taillon, Hoerner (or Happ).
Keep Steele because he is a unicorn starter that will be impossible to replace. His skill, leadership, cost and determination are rare qualities in a starter these days. He's the anchor of the pitching staff and replacing his overall profile would cost 100M+ in free agency.
Trade Nico because he just hasn't lived up to the expectations, fair or not, that the team and fan base have put on him. Also, we have multiple options at 2nd base and shortstop that should provide similar or better performance to Nico. Lastly, Nico is a really good player who is young and controllable at a cheap price. His value in a trade is probably at its highest right now. The only way it would increase is if his offensive numbers increase considerably, and then you don't want to trade him. Get what we can while we can. That's always my policy in trading players. Don't let emotions enter the picture.
Go Cubs Go!
Do Not Trade Justin Steele. You dont trade your ace unless it is a total team rebuild. He is a rock and a Leader. Get a true 3rd baseman STUD thru a signing. Same thing with a catcher, if it is do able? Are their any good catchers coming up for new contracts this winter?
Good morning. I would keep Justin Steele. Although we are 5.5 out on the wildcard, Imanaga, Steele, & Taillon would present a good chance for a quality start in the event of a miracle. Any team could still hit the injury bug as the Cubs have. Starting pitching is key. Trade Nico Hoerner. We can't keep running the same line up out and expect different results. The Cubs just can't hit as a whole. We have depth for second and we need a shake up. We have money coming off the books with Stroman, Barnhart, Mancini, Bote and any contracts concluding after the 24 season. Let's move on with position player trades or call up from the farm system. Keep our pitching and upgrade our position players. Also, we are only 3M away from the threshold per COTS, pending any bonus money, it would really stink to loose and go over the salary cap.
If they trade Steele they better get a huge return. Don't trust Hoyer for a minute who knows what that clown will do. So tired about hearing about these prospects we have no idea what they can do in the big show. We don't need anymore PCAs. Unproven prospects are a waste
Ok first thing...I would keep Steele. This organization probably needs to compete next year for Jed to keep his job. His contract expires next year. Steele has 3 more years after this year. Im not sure any team would pay the steep price it would take to get Steele. So few star players are moved with that much control. Im not against moving him though down the road.
Nico i would move. He drives me nuts because theres so much talent there and he doesnt know how to harness it. As a leadoff hitter he fails because while he doesnt strike out a lot but he also doesnt walk. He has a bad chase rate...but because of his elite bat speed and cordination he doesnt strike out...he just hits a lot of weak contact. Its a shame because he has now had great success getting the ball in the air this year. Baseball savant shows a huge improvement in launch angle. If he would just take his walks and let the pitches come to him he would show power and he would be one of the best in the game.
Shaw may lack Hoerners defense but he makes up with the bat. He has a patient approach with good power and takes his walks. He could very well be the leadoff hitter I wanted Nico to be. Plus who knows...he may surprise us defensively. Nico was never rated that great a defender and look at him now.
keep. Jed says he’s going to sell with next year in mind, and there’s no way we are better next year by trading them.
The Cubs cannot keep blocking their top prospects. An OF needs to go, either Happ or Suzuki. Belli needs to be a salary dump. However, Jed likes to keep things close to vest. I think he will trade Steele and keep Taillon. The Dodgers would be a logical trade partner. Their top prospect is a C/1B, Dalton Rushing. I would also get Jackson Ferris back. Finally, the Dodgers could add another pitching prospect- River Ryan or Nick Frasso. The Cubs will go after Corbin Burnes as a FA. Burnes, Imanaga, Taillon would provide a great top of the rotation. Add Wicks, Assad or Brown to round it out.
Trade Steele or Hoerner to hopefully…get players that we hope and pray might possibly turn into…Justin Steele and Nico Hoerner? Makes zero sense.
Anyone who says trade Steele is insane, he has two more years of team control!!
Just throwing this out there but would you trade Steele and Canario for Mike Trout? He wants to play in Chicago and he wants out of LA
I get the allure of getting an absolute haul for Steele. But yeah, I don't think they are trading Steele. Just hope they get at least one really good prospect for Taillon.
Trade Steele: The Cubs can trade Steele and they can get a great deal for him that can help out the Cubs. They can get a position player that can hit well and field well to help the Cubs in the future. The Cubs can make Shota Imanaga their ace because his ERA for his first six starts was a 0.78, that is ace material. His ERA is still the best on the Cubs starting rotation. They also have Ben Brown and Hayden Wesneski who are almost starter material. Ben Brown’s ERA is a 3.59 and Hayden Wesneski’s ERA is a 3.97. By next year, I’m sure one of them will be a starter.
Keep Hoerner: Horner is a great contact hitter, he has been improving at the plate since the start of the season. His batting average is .257, which is ok for a contact hitter, so I don’t think trading him will be good for the Cubs because they wouldn’t get much for him. This is his second worst year batting average wise, so it is a down year. He needs to be put down more in the lineup so he can drive in runs because he puts the ball in play a lot. He is also young so he has time to improve and get better and make sure he is playing well.
Keep steele homegrown kid and has been our best pitcher for a while now and still has alot of control which could cause a big haul but can adjust well. Trade Nico because he is not as clutch as we thought and if he isn’t hitting for average and getting on he really has no value besides his glove which he can play ss.
keep steele-young controlled starter, cheap, leader, bulldog
Nico-keep, great glove, baller, instincts,
these two are not the problem
DO NOT TRADE STEELE ….. has potential to be a #1 starter … an ace while entering prime yrs with multiple years of team control!!!!
KEEP!!! Steele is the only one on this whole team with any passion! We need guys like that!! It might not show up in the stats, but we're seeing what happens when a baseball team doesn't care!
Nico we should also keep as his weaknesses will be shored up by developing or bringing in some hitters with brass + he's homegrown.
Justin Steele:
Keep- Big yell
Trade- Thin beard
Nico Hoerner:
Keep: Signed ball paradox
Trade: I’m used to having my heart broken
If you can’t tell, I don’t really want to win❤
I believe it time for a change” We need young prospects to step up. So I say trade Nico and Steel. Go Cubs 2025
Trade Hoerner because of the Organizational Depth at 2B and to address need areas on the roster , Steele You Keep unless absolutely blown away by an overpay
Who says either Shaw or Triantos will be as good as Nico? None of this “core” hasn’t proof anything. If PCA was the best, I don’t want to imagine “how good” are the others, down there.
@@rafaellopez5565 ok raf, we will trade nobody, spend the next decade with a team subpar .500 and block all the prospects which we drafted or traded for, and then we can listen to you complain. I dont want to imagine"how pathetic" your clueless idea is here.
trading steele would be a massive mistake unless completely blown away by an offer. as for nico his days are definitely numbered. With the addition of Isaac Paredes Matt Shaw and Triantos are blocked by Nico. Maybe trade nico for a young controllable arm.
Trade Nico … keep Steele … more help at 2nd in the minors .. Steele can be built around in the rotation. But … if someone blows us away anyone is available.
Steele wasn't being figured out. He was rusty from a stint on the DL.
Are you saying they should go through another tear down? You act like this team is 30 games under .500.
I didn't suggest anything. I presented both sides or the argument and asked you to let me know what you thought
Steele, Imanaga, Hoerner, Seiya are my hard nos personally
I guess I could live with getting rid of Hoerner
DON’T TRADE NICO!!!
He epitomizes Cubs baseball, he’s gritty & hustles his heart out! 💪
Keep Steele he has been reliable for these past 2 years and has shown maturity and adjusts well to the league
We should sell Nico because we have prospects like Shaw and trintos that could take his spot in the future and we need to get these AAA guys mlb reps
Absolutely keep Steele, No ifs ands or buts about it. He is a stud and the ace of our rotation for years to come. I would be a lot happier trading away Taillon and using our SP depth to replace him (Who says no to Cade Horton on the 2025 opening day roster?)
I also wouldn't trade Nico because the upcoming FA class for 2nd basemen is pretty meh, and having that gold glove defense from Nico and Dansby up the middle I feel is very valuable. I understand the cubs have lots of very good infield prospects, like Shaw and Triantos, but those guys are both still VERY young and Triantos especially I feel could use some more time in AA and AAA before he is ready. The ONLY way I would trade Nico is for a large overpay
I know 3rd base is an issue that needs to be addressed, but the 2025 FA class is very weak, especially for infielders. Shaw and Morel can switch off at 3rd next season
When is the last time the cubs have drafted AND developed a home grown ace? it's been a long time. Guys like that don't grow on trees. Not only do you clearly keep him but look into extending him so he can be a mentor for the young arms coming up to join him. When it comes to nico, it's clearly the perfect time to trade him. Not only because there are two top 100 prospects that are ready soon to take his spot. But you would be selling high, reloading the farm system , and all while freeing up money to attack the off season to fill the holes
Do not trade Steele or Howrner; instead trade Pete Crow or send him to minors and trade Morel. Also, get another batting coach.
They should absolutely NOT trade Steele OR Hoerner! Steele is arguably the ace of this starting rotation along with Imanaga and he’s under control for 3 more years! Hoerner is a gold glove winning second baseman and he’s having a down year offensively.. he’s too good of a defender and contact hitter to give up on him right now.. if they trade Hoerner who would play second base?? Morel?! Please GOD no!!! Trade Bellinger.. Taillon.. Neris.. Smyly.. dump salary! not valuable pieces of this roster.
Yes Please trade Nico Hoerner and keep Christopher Morel please 🙏
Don’t just don’t. Get rid of Morel. Why the hell would you move everyone around just to make room for this guy???
I hope the cubs don’t trade Nico or Steele because those guys are pretty much the faces of this organization and they’ve been part of the team for awhile and are home grown players. As for who to trade I do have to say that I would much rather part ways with Cody Bellinger, Christopher Morel, Jameson Taillon, and Kyle Hendricks alongside some farm pieces like Alexander Canario, James Triantos, and Matt Mervis
I am partial on Nico depending on what the reward is. I think he's just having a slightly off year and Him and Swanson are the best Infield combo.
Steele is a NoNo
Keep Justin, can't just go out and fund an Ace. Trade Nico, he's been a huge disappointment and they have Busch or Morel to play 2B, then put Belli at 1B. Nico would thrive in LA or NYY, go get a ring Nico!
Hoerner: Sell
He hasn't developed any power, he's cost controlled and you have plenty of internal replacement candidates (Morel, Bote, Shaw and Triantos).
Steele: Sell (but only if someone gives you a haul)
He's almost 30, he basically only throws 2 pitches, he lacks Velo and he potentially has massive value.
Bellinger: SELL + SELL + SELL
If someone offers you more than a used fungo bat, scream SOLD at them.
1. Keeping Nico Hoerner: Since he got called up in 2019, Nico Hoerner has been a consistent competitor on this roster. As bad as the Cubs have been in some of these past years, the finger is never pointed at Nico as a problem. His glove is elite, and hes a great guy in the leadoff spot and should continue to fulfill that role as he is everything you look for in a good Chicago Cub.
2. Keeping Justin Steele: Man this guy reminds me of Lester. Hes so competitive and he cares about the team so much. That game against Milwaukee just showed the passion that this guy has on and off the mound. I feel like hes a great piece as he came up through the Cubs system and genuinely is a guy to build a team around.
3. Who we should trade instead: In my eyes Jameson Taillon is easily the best option to trade at the moment. Hes had an up and down career and is currently dealing better than he ever has. He would be a great addition to a playoff contender as he is a veteran of the league and he has playoff experience with the Yankees
Here is my take: Keep Steele otherwise for next 3 years the Cubs will try to find next Steele. He has passion and leadership for winning. It does not make any sense to trade Steele, he is our ACE!
For Nico, trade him. Michael Busch can replace him.
Nico Hoerner
Position: 2B/SS
Games Played: 93
Batting Average: .251
On-Base Percentage (OBP): .323
Slugging Percentage (SLG): .359
Home Runs (HR): 4
RBIs: 34
Stolen Bases (SB): 18
Walk Percentage (BB%): 8.1%
Strikeout Percentage (K%): 16.2%
Weighted Runs Created Plus (wRC+): 90
Michael Busch
Position: 1B
Games Played: 84
Batting Average: .237
On-Base Percentage (OBP): .325
Slugging Percentage (SLG): .409
Home Runs (HR): 11
RBIs: 39
Stolen Bases (SB): 5
Walk Percentage (BB%): 11.5%
Strikeout Percentage (K%): 24.0%
Weighted Runs Created Plus (wRC+): 107
Hoerner is known for his contact hitting and defensive versatility, while Busch provides more power and a higher walk rate but also strikes out more frequently.
Trade them all!
Neither one, no trade. Off the table
It will be interesting to see exactly who will be left after we traded the core. The Robertson / Brown trade might be the best one. The Kimbrel trade is already proven that nothing worked on that one. We will see
NICO, yes, he's been a Cub for a while now, and the Cubs get no better. He has a good glove but no bat. Steele, no, he's exactly what you want in a pitcher.
The team is so horribly put together that it will take years (with a good gm and an owner whose wallet doesn't squeak when opening it) to make them viable. I don't see anything good coming from this organization. Hard for me to care what they do right now.
And replace their production with who ? Unproven prospects ? Makes no sense , I'd rather see Happ go , and Madrigal, and Amaya and some of those bullpen slugs . And here you are talking 2 or 3 years down the road . Same nonsense as Hoyer . More seasons of mediocrity .
Hoyer is the worst. Can’t win without Theo. Keeps pretending that “we’ll keep the core together” and make some trades. Nico and Steele are not the problem. Hoyer and CounciL are the problem. He picked the wrong guys to give big contracts. There is no star in the lineup and no closer.
These days, good pitchers are good......well into their late 30's.
trade swanson and counsell for a candy bar
Dude thank you for speaking the truth I been saying justin is not a ace on a good team he is out performing hes numbers he will decline he will get figured out and everytime I bring it up i get just shitted on
Steele needs to stay, unless the offfer is overwhelming
Uhh… no?
NOPE! ABSOLUTELY NOT!
Trade Hoerner. KEEP Steele!!!