PT TOMORROW: NL Central - Hoerner gets leadoff duties in CHC

Chicago Cubs

Perhaps to the surprise of some, even after signing Dansby Swanson (SS, CHC), manager David Ross recently indicated that Nico Hoerner (SS, CHC) will have the first opportunity to win the leadoff role for the Cubs. Hoerner has led off only three games during his MLB career, for a total of 13 plate appearances. That’s too small of a sample to determine if he can have success in the role, though he has displayed some skills in his overall profile to suggest he may excel (86 ct%, .333 OBA, 133 SPD, 15% SBO, 80 SB%).

To put some more specific numbers to that assertion, Hoerner hit primarily fifth and sixth in the order last season. The Cubs’ collective leadoff hitters totaled 739 plate appearances in 2022, while the fifth and...

Almost!

You’re just a few clicks away from accessing this feature and hundreds more throughout the year that have a singular goal in mind: Winning your league. Subscribe to BaseballHQ.com here!

Already a subscriber? Sign in here

More From PT Tomorrow

Royals closer Lucas Erceg has been a mess lately—who could the team turn to as a replacement? Plus, CHW outfield playing time outlook, hitting prospects learning new positions in CLE, the nearly-restored rotation in DET, and Royce Lewis tearing it up in Triple-A for the Twins.
Jun 4 2026 3:05am
Miami's rotation has sustained casualties and attrition, leaving a thinned-out platoon—and opportunity. Plus: Manaea at NYM; prospect SS in PHI; prospect SP in WAS; SS in ATL; more.
Jun 3 2026 10:15am
With Max Muncy returning from the IL, the A's will need to shuffle up the lineup, meaning Zack Gelof could be changing positions again.
Jun 3 2026 3:06am
Since receiving treatment for vertigo, Nathan Lukes has turned his season around, strengthening his case for playing time. Plus, Colton Cowser's resurgence in BAL, and more from around the AL East.
Jun 2 2026 3:05am
Ezequiel Tovar tries to find his old promise, Harrison Bader once again proves to be sneakily valuable, a Diamondbacks prospect finds his way to the majors, and the Dodgers and Padres try to find answers to infield questions.
May 30 2026 3:06am

Tools