The NL Central is one of the most interesting divisions in baseball. There is no clear frontrunner and each of the teams have some holes or roster uncertainty. So, who is going to win the NL Central? Let’s take a look at the teams.
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You can also take a look at our other division predictions here: AL West / AL East / AL Central / NL West / NL East
Milwaukee Brewers
The Brewers signed Rhys Hoskins who fills a hole for the organization at 1st base. The Brewers also will have one of the top prospects in the entire league on their opening day lineup in outfielder Jackson Chourio. Chourio has power and speed and is capable of 30-30 campaigns. I think the trade of Corbin Burnes really hurts the pitching. With the departure of Burnes, Freddy Peralta is the new ace of the organization. In 30 starts last year, Peralta went 12-10 with a 3.86 ERA. I think the Brewers struggle early on and become sellers near the trade deadline. I’m picking them to finish last in the division.
Pittsburgh Pirates
There are two notable players I will be watching for Pittsburgh; Oneil Cruz & Ke’Bryan Hayes. Cruz is a special talent and should have a productive season if he can stay healthy. Hayes, on the other hand, has not lived up to expectations thus far in his career. Sure, he did win his first Gold Glove last year, but offensively the numbers haven’t been there. However, I think this is the year where his power numbers really start increasing. I think he has an All-Star caliber campaign. At some point this year, I am looking for the debut of phenom pitcher Paul Skenes who will immediately become the ace of the organization. Pitching depth is the major concern however and is why I’m picking the Pirates to finish 4th in the division.
Cincinnati Reds
The Reds are a team on the rise! But, it may be a bit too soon to truly contend. The Reds roster is led by promising young infielders Elly De La Cruz and Matt McLain. De La Cruz in particular is a unique talent standing 6’5” while having the range needed to play shortstop. The suspension of Noelvi Marte for performance enhancing substances really hurts this club. I thought Marte was capable of having a breakout year this season. I think the Reds take a huge leap forward but still miss the playoffs. I’m picking them to finish 3rd in the division.
St. Louis Cardinals
The Cardinals had a tough season last year going 71-91 and finishing last in the division. It’s tough to imagine that they will repeat that performance. The Cardinals have veteran leadership and players that are still serviceable in Paul Goldschmidt and Nolan Arenado. I’m looking for Jordan Walker to build upon his rookie season and have another solid campaign. Dylan Carlson is the player to watch for me. Carlson is a solid player but has not met expectations since arriving in the big leagues. The pitching has improved since last year with Sonny Gray and Lance Lynn leading the way, but its still not great. I’m picking the Cardinals to finish 2nd in the division.
Chicago Cubs
The big question mark with the Cubs is whether or not Cody Bellinger can repeat the season he had last year. Bellinger had a solid year in his first campaign with the Cubs hitting .307 with 26 home runs and 97 RBIs. For the record, I think Bellinger has an even better year this season. I have always liked Seiya Suzuki and I think he will have a great season as well. Suzuki had a solid end to the season in 2023 and continued right where he left off with an outstanding performance in spring training. I think Suzuki could be one of the better hitters in the entire National League. Pitching is solid as well led by Justin Steele. Steele finished fifth in Cy Young voting last year and should have an equal, if not better, season in 2024. I’m picking the Cubs to win the division.
Who do you think will win the NL Central? Comment below!
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