Cubs: Nico Hoerner has best chance for Rookie of the Year

The Chicago Cubs may soon have another member to be named National League Rookie of the Year in second baseman Nico Hoerner next year.

The Chicago Cubs franchise has been fortunate enough to have several players receive National League Rookie of the Year honors. Kris Bryant was the most recent in 2015; Geovany Soto in 2008 and Kerry Wood in 1998. But another member could soon join this club in Nico Hoerner. The 22-year old was not expected to make his big league debut last season, but out of necessity, saw a promotion from Double-A Tennessee.

In just 20 games, Hoerner hit .282 and drove in 17 runs. Not known for his power, he mashed three home runs during that span, including a go-ahead first-inning home run on the first pitch he saw against the Pirates. And while his natural position is at shortstop, the Cubs have an open competition at second base, and Hoerner should have the inside track to replace Addison Russell. His excellent contact rate and above-average defense make him an ideal player that has the potential to change the dynamic of the Cubs’ lineup.

The competition for NL ROY honors appears to be stiff with the likes of Gavin Lux (Dodgers), Cristian Pache (Braves), and Carter Kieboom (Nationals). History would indicate that the award goes to a power bat with the last five awarded to Pete Alonso, Ronald Acuna Jr., Cody Bellinger, Corey Seager, and Bryant. That being said, if Hoerner were to post a crazy batting average with 20 home runs and at least 70 RBI, he would have a strong argument.

And though awards are nice for the trophy case at home, Hoerner’s ability to put the bat on the ball and hit singles and doubles are what makes him valuable to the Cubs. In an offseason that is looking more and more like returning the same group of players, these subtle changes have the potential for a much more significant impact.