Five potential X factors in the NL Central

More often than not, the somewhat forgotten players on a roster make the biggest difference in a team's fortunes. These players, whether positively or negatively, could play a role in whether a team exceeds expectations or struggles during the season. Let's look at three potential X factors around the National League Central.

Chicago Cubs: Outfielder Pete Crow-Armstrong

Although the Cubs and Crow-Armstrong are reportedly closing in on a long-term extension, it is fair to wonder exactly what they have in their dynamic center fielder. He followed an All-Star-caliber first half in 2025 with an ice-cold second half as his strikeouts continued to pile up. Crow-Armstrong's speed and defense give him a solid floor, but the Cubs need him to find consistency with the bat.

Cincinnati Reds: Infielder Matt McLain

McLain appeared to be a burgeoning star for the Reds in 2023 as he posted a .290/.357/.507 batting line with 16 homers and 23 doubles in his 403 plate appearances while stealing 13 bases. He was not the same after missing the entire 2024 season due to a torn labrum in his left shoulder, producing at a replacement level in 2025. McLain had a white-hot showing in spring training, and with the Reds eyeing a return to the postseason, a return to his 2023 form could go a long way to making that happen.

Milwaukee Brewers: Pitcher Jacob Misiorowski

Misiorowski burst on the scene for the Brewers, being named to the All-Star Game despite being in the majors for less than a month at that point. He had an uneven rookie season, posting a 4.36 ERA and a 1.242 WHIP over his 66 innings, striking out 87 batters with 31 walks. The Brewers' Opening Day starter, Misiorowski is expected to take over as the staff ace. As the Brewers are looking to contend once more, his ascension could make or break their season.

Pittsburgh Pirates: Pitcher Jared Jones

It is easy to forget that the Pirates had two impressive young starters debut in 2024 given Paul Skenes' dominance. Jones had posted a 4.14 ERA and a 1.192 WHIP over his 121.2 innings, striking out 132 batters with 39 walks. He underwent surgery on his right elbow, missing the entire 2025 season and will be out until late May this year. If he can return and build off his strong showing in 2023, the Pirates could have one of the better 1-2 punches atop the rotation in baseball.

St. Louis Cardinals: Infielder Nolan Gorman

Gorman appeared to be a key part of the Cardinals future after a solid showing in 2023. However, he struggled over the past two seasons, posting a .204/.284/.385 batting line with 33 homers and 29 doubles in 804 plate appearances since the start of the 2024 season. As the Cardinals are fully in rebuild mode, Gorman will have every opportunity to prove that he can be a viable major league option this season. It may be his last chance.