Nico Hoerner
Breakdown
Performance
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May 3, 2026
Making return to lineup
Hoerner (neck) will start at second base and bat leadoff in Sunday's game against the Diamondbacks.
Analysis
Hoerner was removed from Friday's game after experiencing tightness on the left side of his neck and then remained on the bench Saturday as well, but he feels well enough to give it a go in the series finale. The 28-year-old opened the season as the Cubs' No. 5 hitter but has climbed into the leadoff spot after producing a .374 OBP through his first 32 games.
May 2, 2026
Absent from Saturday's lineup
Hoerner (neck) is not in the Cubs' starting lineup against the Diamondbacks on Saturday.
Analysis
Hoerner left Friday's game against Arizona due to neck tightness, and the injury will keep the veteran second baseman on the bench for Saturday's matinee. Matt Shaw will start at the keystone and bat eighth against right-hander Ryne Nelson.
May 1, 2026
Dealing with neck issue
Hoerner was removed from Friday's game against the Diamondbacks due to left-sided neck tightness, Taylor McGregor of Marquee Sports Network reports.
Analysis
The 28-year-old doubled and scored during the opening frame but was replaced by a pinch hitter during the second inning. The severity of the injury isn't clear, but the Cubs could offer some more information after Friday's contest. Hoerner should be considered day-to-day for now.
May 1, 2026
Exits game with neck injury
Hoerner was removed from Friday's game versus the Diamondbacks in the second inning with neck tightness, Jesse Rogers of ESPN.com reports.
Analysis
Hoerner doubled and scored in the bottom of the first inning but was then pulled from the game when his spot in the order came up again in the second. It sounds like a day-to-day issue, but Hoerner's status shome become clearer after the contest.