Nico Hoerner Enters Home Run Derby, Cubs Fans Lose Their Minds

CHICAGO - Chicago Cubs second baseman Nico Hoerner revealed that he will be participating in this year’s Home Run Derby—despite having hit just three home runs all season. The Cubs infielder, known more for his glove and contact hitting than his power, stunned fans and insiders alike with the news, which was first shared via the team’s official account and quickly amplified by baseball Twitter.

Even Hoerner’s own teammates seemed caught off guard. Dansby Swanson, upon hearing the announcement, reportedly laughed and said, “Wait, Nico’s doing the Derby? He’s hit three dingers—this is wild.” Outfielder Seiya Suzuki was slightly more diplomatic, adding, “I always knew Nico has power in his hands… I just didn’t know he’d be showing it off on national television.” Inside the clubhouse, reactions ranged from supportive chuckles to jokes about switching his bat for an aluminum one.

MLB insiders were similarly stunned. ESPN’s Jeff Passan posted, “You’re telling me Nico Hoerner is in the Home Run Derby with three homers on the season? One of the most chaotic decisions in Derby history—and I kind of love it.” Others speculated whether this was a stunt, a bet gone wrong, or simply a refreshing twist in an otherwise predictable field of sluggers.

Cubs fans on social media didn’t hold back. “Hoerner in the Derby? Did they mistake his slugging percentage for his homer total?” one fan posted. Another chimed in, “Nico’s gonna bunt his way into history.” Still, the overwhelming sentiment was excitement. “He’s repping the contact hitters. Let’s go Nico!” one popular Cubs account tweeted, earning thousands of likes. Others dubbed him “The People’s Champ,” rooting for him to defy the odds and make a splash.

As for how Hoerner might perform? Most analysts agree he’s a long shot. He doesn’t have the raw exit velocity or launch angle profile of a typical Derby competitor like Luis Arraez, who announced he will be in the Derby as well. But in a timed format, with a groove and a little adrenaline, anything can happen. Hoerner’s compact swing and elite hand-eye coordination could surprise a few people—maybe even himself. Some fans have even pointed to Atlanta’s hitter-friendly conditions and the short left field as potential aids.

Regardless of the outcome, the move has already added a jolt of intrigue to the Derby. In an event often dominated by the same names and archetypes, Nico Hoerner brings something different: a guy with nothing to lose, no expectations, and a fan base ready to explode if he even gets to double digits. Whether he goes down in the first round or pulls off a miracle, one thing is for sure—he’ll have all of Wrigleyville behind him. And maybe, just maybe, a few dingers in the tank.