MLB

Updated 2015 NL Central Prediction, December 14 Edition

Updated 2015 NL Central Prediction, December 14 Edition

Starlin Castro
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A couple teams in the NL Central have taken significant steps forward for 2015, while a few have taken significant steps backward. Here is how the drastically-changed NL Central standings will look by season's end.

5. Cincinnati Reds

Pittsburgh Pirates v Cincinnati Reds
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5. Cincinnati Reds

Pittsburgh Pirates v Cincinnati Reds
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Projected Record: 72-90

The Cincinnati Reds had to trade away pitchers Mat Latos and Alfredo Simon in order to shed some payroll, and they're going to be even worse in 2015 as a result. Their entire team struggles to get on base and it's going to be a challenge for Cincinnati to do anything in the upcoming season.

4. Milwaukee Brewers

St. Louis Cardinals v Milwaukee Brewers
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4. Milwaukee Brewers

St. Louis Cardinals v Milwaukee Brewers
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Projected Record: 75-87

After a surprising season in 2014, the Milwaukee Brewers, who have done nothing this offseason, are going to take a step back in 2015. While they still may be competitive early on, they don't have the lineup depth to sustain success in the upcoming season.

3. Chicago Cubs

Atlanta Braves v Chicago Cubs
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3. Chicago Cubs

Atlanta Braves v Chicago Cubs
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Projected Record: 85-77

The Chicago Cubs are one of the most improved teams in baseball, and that could help them to their first winning season in several years. Jon Lester, Jason Hammel and Miguel Montero, as well as prospects like Kris Bryant and Jorge Soler, are going to make this team competitive again in 2015.

2. Pittsburgh Pirates

Pittsburgh Pirates v Cincinnati Reds
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2. Pittsburgh Pirates

Pittsburgh Pirates v Cincinnati Reds
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Projected Record: 92-70

The Pittsburgh Pirates, after making the playoffs two years in a row, are set to be even better this season. With top prospects mixing with proven veterans, they finally have a roster that can realistically compete for a World Series title in 2015.

1. St. Louis Cardinals

St. Louis Cardinals v Milwaukee Brewers
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1. St. Louis Cardinals

St. Louis Cardinals v Milwaukee Brewers
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Projected Record: 94-68

The St. Louis Cardinals added outfielder Jason Heyward via trade, and they now have one of the deepest lineups in the game. If they are able to add one more arm in free agency, they could be the team to beat in the division and the National League.

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