The NL Central was an interesting division last year. While the Milwaukee Brewers were able to come away with the division, it was the St. Louis Cardinals’ run to the second Wild Card that generated plenty of interest. They came roaring back out from out of nowhere to reach the playoffs, only to fall to the Dodgers in the Wild Card round.
This year, the division may be a case of the haves and the have-nots. While the Pirates are clearly in the midst of their rebuilding process, the Reds also began one of their own. They sent away several key pieces, especially in their rotation, as their rebuilding process has begun.
Predicting the 2022 NL Central standings
That does not mean that the rest of the division is standing pat. The Cubs, after their own fire sale at the trade deadline, made moves to reload. The Brewers and Cardinals are still strong teams. And it is possible that the Reds can surprise if they stay healthy.
Who will take home the crown in the NL Central in 2022? Let’s take a look ahead and predict how the division will shake out.
5. Pittsburgh Pirates
The Pittsburgh Pirates should get used to this spot in the NL Central. They may be here for some time to come.
That is not to say that the Pirates are entirely devoid of talent. Ke’Bryan Hayes and Bryan Reynolds are the type of player that they need to build around. Oneil Cruz has the potential to be a third star in their lineup. But the pitching staff is in desperate need of a talent infusion and the Pirates just do not have enough major league ready talent to contend for the next couple of years.
The Pirates’ time will eventually come. It just will not be for a couple of years in the future.