MLB Futures: National League Central

Milwaukee Brewers (+145)

It feels like the window for the Brewers might be closing. Eventually, they are going to have to spend some money and the return they have gotten from OF Christian Yelich's big contract is enough to make any GM skittish. The rotation can be very good and they have made some moves to try and lengthen their lineup. Closer Devin Williams can be excellent but the rest of the bullpen might just be average, or worse. This is a winning team, but they need a hitter to emerge to really challenge upward.

The gap between Milwaukee and St. Louis is not as big as this number suggests. 

Chicago Cubs (+550)

You might not have noticed but the Cubs have turned over more than half their lineup from last season. The biggest get was SS Dansby Swanson, but four other projected starters are hoping to bridge the gap between them and the Cardinals and Brewers. Those additions are a mish-mash of players whose best years might be behind them. The intriguing one is OF Cody Bellinger, who is still just 27. The real challenge for the Cubs is even if that group that does outperform, they might be dragged down by pitching. Marcus Stroman is light by ace standards and newly acquired Jameson Taillon is not enough to move the needle.

I want this division to be a three-team race but Chicago is still a pitcher or two away. 

Cincinnati Reds (+6000)

The path back to respectability for the Reds is going to be a long one. You can see the leaders though in young starting pitchers Hunter Greene and Nick Lodolo. Both are aces in the making and both should continue their development this season. Unfortunately, run support is going to be very difficult to count on. First baseman Joey Votto is still around for the Reds and is a recognizable bat, but he is far from the player he once was. Surrounding him is an odd lineup with few players capable of strong seasons. There is just not much there. This team will battle Washington for the worst offense in the National League. 

Backing the Reds when those young arms are on the mound is intriguing. Beyond that take a pass. 

Pittsburgh Pirates (+6000)

Outfielders Andrew McCutchen is back with the Pirates this season, but other than that there is not a lot to get excited about. Shortstop O'Neil Cruz is a fascinating prospect but based on what we saw last season he is still a ways away from being an elite Major Leaguer. The players they are picking up seem to be lottery tickets they hope they can deal trade than contributing players and there is definitely not enough pitching for this team to be competitive. 

I am surprised the odds are the same for the Pirates and Reds. Both are long shots but the Reds are the much better team. 

My Pick: St. Louis is probably the best team but at the price you have to pay, Milwaukee is the better value right now.