The NL Central Division is shaping up to be one of the most competitive in Major League Baseball for the 2025 season. With all five teams possessing enough talent to make a playoff push, fans are eagerly anticipating a thrilling race to the top.
From the Brewers’ dominance to the Reds’ new managerial influence, each team has unique strengths and challenges that will define their season. Let’s delve into a detailed preview of the NL Central, examining each team’s lineup, rotation, key players, and the critical questions they face.
The Milwaukee Brewers: Aiming for Another Title
Fresh off their fourth division title since 2018, the Milwaukee Brewers are the favorites heading into the 2025 season. Despite losing closer Devin Williams and shortstop Willy Adames, the Brewers have a solid lineup and rotation that could carry them deep into the playoffs.
Projected Starting Lineup
- Jackson Chourio, RF
- Christian Yelich, DH
- William Contreras, C
- Garrett Mitchell, CF
- Rhys Hoskins, 1B
- Brice Turang, 2B
- Joey Ortiz, SS
- Sal Frelick, LF
- Oliver Dunn, 3B
Projected Rotation
- Freddy Peralta, RHP
- Nestor Cortes, LHP
- Aaron Civale, RHP
- José Quintana, LHP
- Tyler Alexander, LHP
With two-time All-Star Brandon Woodruff expected to return from shoulder surgery, the Brewers’ rotation could become even more formidable. The bullpen, led by Trevor Megill, will also play a crucial role in their success.
Biggest Question: Can They Make a Deep Playoff Run?
Despite their regular-season success, the Brewers have struggled in the postseason, going 2-10 in playoff games since 2018. The key to their success will be whether they can translate their regular-season dominance into a deep playoff run.
The Chicago Cubs: Striving for Relevance
After two consecutive seasons with 83 wins, the Chicago Cubs are looking to return to prominence. With the addition of MVP-caliber star Kyle Tucker and a mix of young talent and seasoned players, the Cubs have the potential to make a significant impact.
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Projected Starting Lineup
- Ian Happ, LF
- Seiya Suzuki, DH
- Kyle Tucker, RF
- Michael Busch, 1B
- Matt Shaw, 3B
- Dansby Swanson, SS
- Pete Crow-Armstrong, CF
- Miguel Amaya, C
- Jon Berti, 2B
Projected Rotation
- Shota Imanaga, LHP
- Justin Steele, LHP
- Jameson Taillon, RHP
- Matthew Boyd, LHP
- Colin Rea, RHP
With a talented roster and second-year manager Craig Counsell, the Cubs have the pieces to compete. The question remains whether they can put it all together and play like true contenders throughout the season.
Biggest Question: Can the Cubs Return to Actual Relevance?
The Cubs need to overcome their recent mediocrity and perform consistently to make a playoff push. The addition of key players like Tucker and Pressly, combined with the development of young talents, will be crucial in determining their success.
The Pittsburgh Pirates: Harnessing Young Talent
The Pittsburgh Pirates have a mix of young talent and experienced players that could make them a surprise contender. With a strong rotation led by Paul Skenes and a lineup featuring promising players, the Pirates have the potential to compete in the NL Central.
Projected Starting Lineup
- Tommy Pham, LF
- Bryan Reynolds, RF
- Oneil Cruz, CF
- Andrew McCutchen, DH
- Joey Bart, C
- D.J. Stewart, 1B
- Nick Gonzales, 2B
- Ke’Bryan Hayes, 3B
- Isiah Kiner-Falefa, SS
Projected Rotation
- Paul Skenes, RHP
- Mitch Keller, RHP
- Andrew Heaney, LHP
- Bailey Falter, LHP
The Pirates’ rotation has the potential to be one of the best in baseball, with Skenes possibly emerging as the top pitcher in the league. However, their offense remains a concern, and they will need key players to step up to compete consistently.
Biggest Question: Is There Enough Offense?
The Pirates’ offense struggled last season, finishing 24th in runs scored. Improvement from players like Cruz and Hayes will be essential for the Pirates to have a successful season and make a playoff push.
The Cincinnati Reds: The Francona Effect
With the addition of future Hall of Fame manager Terry Francona, the Cincinnati Reds are looking to harness their young talent and make a significant leap in the standings. Francona’s leadership and experience could be the key to unlocking the Reds’ potential.
Projected Starting Lineup
- TJ Friedl, CF
- Matt McLain, 2B
- Elly De La Cruz, SS
- Austin Hays, LF
- Jeimer Candelario, 1B
- Gavin Lux, 3B
- Christian Encarnacion-Strand, DH
- Jake Fraley, RF
- Jose Trevino, C
Projected Rotation
- Hunter Greene, RHP
- Brady Singer, RHP
- Nick Lodolo, LHP
- Nick Martinez, RHP
- Andrew Abbott, LHP
The Reds have a lot of young talent that could develop into stars under Francona’s guidance. The key will be how quickly they can adapt and perform at a high level consistently.
Biggest Question: How Big a Difference Does Francona Make?
Francona’s track record of turning teams into contenders is well-documented. His ability to bring out the best in players and create a winning culture will be crucial for the Reds’ success this season.
The St. Louis Cardinals: Balancing Youth and Experience
The St. Louis Cardinals are in a transition phase, trying to balance their youth movement with the desire to remain competitive. With a mix of veterans and young players, the Cardinals are aiming to stay in the race while developing their future stars.
Projected Starting Lineup
- Masyn Winn, SS
- Lars Nootbaar, LF
- Willson Contreras, 1B
- Nolan Arenado, 3B
- Brendan Donovan, 2B
- Iván Herrera, C
- Alec Burleson, DH
- Jordan Walker, RF
- Victor Scott II, CF
Projected Rotation
- Sonny Gray, RHP
- Erick Fedde, RHP
- Miles Mikolas, RHP
- Andre Pallante, RHP
- Steven Matz, LHP
Biggest Question: How Do They Juggle the Youth Movement with Contention?
The Cardinals will need to find the right balance between giving their young players opportunities to develop and remaining competitive in the division.
Their ability to manage this balance will determine their success this season.
As the 2025 MLB season approaches, the NL Central Division promises to be one of the most exciting and competitive races in baseball.
Each team has the potential to make the playoffs, so fans can look forward to a thrilling season.
For a more detailed analysis, check out the full NL Central Division Preview.
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