- Apr 22, 2025; Chicago, Illinois, USA; Chicago Cubs first baseman Michael Busch (29) throws water on Chicago Cubs outfielder Ian Happ (8) after the game against the Los Angeles Dodgers at Wrigley Field. Mandatory Credit: Matt Marton-Imagn Images

National League Central Had a Historic First Half In 2025

Originally posted on Total Apex Sports | By Justin Rimpi | Last updated Jul 17, 2025 11:24 AM ET

The National League Central had a great first half of the 2025 regular season. The division has a combined +195 run differential. That is the best run differential ever by a National League division at the All-Star break. There have been four instances of American League ballclubs having a +195 or better run differential at the All-Star break. The most recent occurrence was the 2023 American League East(+278). Who will win the National League Central this season?

National League Central Summary

The NL Central has a combined +195 run differential so far in 2025.

That's the best run differential ever by a National League division at the All-Star break. pic.twitter.com/c0kLmXnH59

— OptaSTATS (@OptaSTATS) July 17, 2025

The Chicago Cubs hold a slim lead over the Milwaukee Brewers at the All-Star break. The St. Louis Cardinals and Cincinnati Reds are also both above .500. Milwaukee is in the first wild card spot. St. Louis is 1.5 games out of playoff position while Cincinnati is 2.5 games back.

The winner of the National League Central will come down to the wire, and if the teams can maintain their level of play, three or four teams could qualify for the MLB Playoffs. Even though the Pirates have had a tough year, their run differential(-53) has not impacted the division’s overall outlook. Pittsburgh has a horrendous offense and may be sellers at the 2025 MLB Trade Deadline.

Final Thoughts

The National League Central will look to maintain its standing as one of the best divisions in Major League Baseball. They will seek to continue playing well over the summer.

This article first appeared on Total Apex Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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