It seems only fitting to kick off my MLB predictions with arguably the toughest division in baseball last year – the NL Central.
Boasting not only the 2011 World Series Champion St. Louis Cardinals, but also the Milwaukee Brewers, the Central Division was hotly contested down the stretch. However, can we expect the same this year? Simply, “NO”.
Okay, I get baseball is a team sport. I also know that there are certain ingredients that are necessary to make bread rise. Sorry, stupid comparison. With two of the world’s best sluggers abandoning their respective teams, there is no doubt that these teams will be greatly affected. The minute Albert Pujols, arguably the best baseballer on the planet, decided to leave St. Louis, the rest of the teams, but mostly Milwaukee, breathed a little easier. That was until Prince Fielder joined Pujols in the American League by signing with Detroit. Suddenly Houston, Chicago, Pittsburgh and Cincinnati began dancing in the streets like idiots. I mean that in a nice way.
So what can we expect? First, I must say that the division became much more of a toss-up. I think it will be an excellent race for the playoff spot (sorry, I don’t see a wildcard here). Let’s take a look in reverse order at how I think the division will go:
6. Houston Astros
This is Houston’s last year on this stage, as realignment will have them in another division next year. For this reason, and also the fact that they just don’t have the talent, they will finish last. Yes, they have Brett Wallace and the first overall draft pick, but these are pieces for the future…the distant future. Sorry Astros, even my Cubbies got ya!
5. Pittsburgh Pirates
I was really debating whether to go with the Pirates or the Cubs here. I believe more in the current management in Chicago so I will pick Pittsburgh to finish fifth. Pittsburgh has had such a bad run over the past couple of decades, I really feel bad for the fans in the American Steel City. They have made every attempt at building up the farm, and from what I understand they have done just that. But the farm doesn’t always translate to victories, especially in the short-term. Pirates fans: your time is near, but 2012 isn’t near enough. Just be happy you have Andrew McCutchen.
4. Chicago Cubs
Nothing would make me happier than to move Chicago to the top half of the division, but I just don’t see it this year. I do like the current management situation, and believe Epstein will be a good man for the team. With the addition of Chris Volstad and Travis Wood, the Cubs are obviously trying to stockpile pitchers, which is never a bad thing. They haven’t done enough to make any run at post-season play, and expect another year without a championship. Stupid billy-goat.
3. Milwaukee Brewers
In all fairness, the Brewers did attempt to replace Fielder, but that is easier said than done. Add to that Braun’s positive drug test, which will be a nuisance for the club despite what they say. With Selig lifting the 50-game ban, pressure has eased a bit, but the team’s image, and especially Braun’s, is tarnished. They just don’t have that “underdog mystique” about them. I can’t see them competing with Cinci or the Cards. I hate the Cards.
2. St. Louis Cardinals
While I hate the Cards (I was told I have to, being a Cubs fan and all), I will concede that it is likely the centre of the baseball universe. The fans are rabid, the team is successful, and they are coming off another World Series Championship. So why aren’t they going to win the division? I think you know the answer – Albert, or lack-there-of. But also remember the guy who really lead the team down the stretch-run – Tony LaRussa! Tony, like Albert (yes, we are on a first-name basis), is not so easy to replace. St. Louis is still a legitimate team, and will make a push. Adding Berkman and Beltran certainly helps a lot.
1. Cincinnati Reds
Added to stalwarts Joey Votto, Brandon Phillips and Devin Mesoraco, the Reds brought in pitching help. A LOT of pitching help. Cordero out, Madson in. Why only sign him for one year? Maybe someone can help me understand that one? Anyway, Madson will shut games down. Mat Latos was a great acquisition also, and is sure to give the Reds many, many good innings. I also like the team’s chemistry, which can’t be understated (For the record, I like the Cards chemistry also, but Pujols leaving just hurts too much).
There you have it ladies, my prediction for how the NL Central will go down. I would welcome more in-depth discussion below, if you want to chime in. Either add your list, or perhaps tell me more about a particular team. How do you see it going down?
…and that is the last word.
