NL Central Futures: Will Cubs or Brewers Win Division?

While the National League East is one division that is always extremely competitive, so is the National League Central. With the St. Louis Cardinals heading into a slight rebuild, it will likely be between the Chicago Cubs and the Milwaukee Brewers for the crown this season. The Cubbies head into the campaign as the favorite, the Brew Crew aren’t far behind them. Below, we’ll preview the division and analyze any huge moves these ball clubs made this winter.

Chicago Cubs

The Cubs failed to live up to expectations last season, narrowly missing out on the playoffs with an 83-79 record. Chicago proceeded to make a flurry of moves this winter to hopefully get them back to the postseason. Most notably, they traded Cody Bellinger but also pulled off a blockbuster deal for Kyle Tucker, who should replace Belli in the heart of the lineup. Also, Chicago brought in the likes of Ryan Pressly, Justin Turner, Jon Berti, Matthew Boyd, and Colin Rea. Craig Counsell heads into his second season as the Cubbies manager and certainly has a talented roster to work with. We may finally see them in the playoffs again. Chicago has +110 odds to win the NL Central at Sports Interaction.

Milwaukee Brewers

The Brewers have dominated the National League Central over the last few years, winning it in three of the last four seasons. Milwaukee went 93-69 in 2024 but was upset in the NL Wild Card by the New York Mets, who nearly made the World Series. Milwaukee definitely lost some key pieces in the offseason. Devin Williams, Wade Miley, Colin Rea, and Willy Adames are all gone. Nestor Cortes is the most notable addition, coming over in the Williams trade with the Yankees. The Brewers will certainly have a different look in ‘25 and could have stiff competition from the Cubs to lift the NL Central title again. They have the second-best odds at MLB betting sites.

Cincinnati Reds

Although the Reds aren’t expected to be a contender, they certainly have the right man leading the way. Cincinnati hired Terry Francona as their next manager, who brings a ton of experience to the table. This ball club has several exciting players on their roster, though. Elly De La Cruz is electrifying and heads into his third MLB season, while Hunter Greene has emerged as the ace and one of the top starters in the big leagues. Matt McLain also returns from injury after missing all of ‘24. He is a solid two-way player who should be a huge help. When it comes to additions, Brady Singer, Wade Miley, Austin Hays, and Jose Trevino are the biggest names. The Reds finished with a 77-85 record last season.

St. Louis Cardinals

The top priority for the Cardinals this offseason was trading Nolan Arenado, but it’s still yet to happen. It’s very clear this organization is taking a new direction, with most of their stars gone except for the All-Star third baseman. Young talent will take center stage in ‘25, including the likes of Masyn Winn, Nolan Gorman, and Jordan Walker I don’t think St. Louis is going into this season with the hopes of contending, but who knows, the youngsters could surprise.