2006 Predictions = NL Central

To me, the NL Central is one of the harder divisions to predict as there are a lot of unknowns. Will Clemens pitch for the Astros? Will Kerry Wood's arm fall off? Will the Cardinals have a healthy Scott Rolen? So much to consider. The only thing I know for sure is that the Reds will be the Central division cellar dweller and it will be a close race with the top 3 teams finishing within a few games of each other.
1)Houston Astros: Bagwell's gone but I don't foresee Houston having a problem with the Rocket as I think he'll be back in Houston. The pitching staff remains solid and carries the 'Stros to the top of the division.
2)Milwaukee Brewers: The Brew Crew will surprise everyone and make a run at the top but will come up short. Bernie Brewer will get plenty of exercise and Ned Yost will be candidate for Manager of the Year.
3)St. Louis Cardinals: The loss of Grudzielanek and Reggie Sanders will have a big impact on the offense. Carpenter will lose some run support and the bullpen is weakened with the loss of Tavarez. The variable is Rolen. A healthy Rolen can shake things up.
4)Pittsburgh Pirates: Could this be the year the Pirates get to .500? They'll flirt with it all year and a lot rests on their young arms. J-Bay will have a monster year and get some consideration for MVP.
5)Chicago Cubs: I don't have much faith in the Cubs to crack the .500 mark. Too many questions about the health of Wood and Prior. Maddux is in his 20th year and will continue to see an increase in his numbers (ERA, WHIP, OBA) and probably won't win 15 for the 2nd straight year. If Pierre can increase his .OBP and set the table for Lee, it's possible the Cubbies will win 81. Lee's numbers will be more in line with 2003/2004.
6)Cincinnati Reds: When Arroyo is your number 1 starter, you're in trouble. The Redlegs need to keep Freel off the road and on the basepaths. Reds pitching needs to be greatly improved. Expect to see many moves made around the trading deadline. Could easily lose 100 games.
Tomorrow, I'll wrap up the NL with my NL West predictions. Take care and have a great day. Baseball is only 5 days away!!!
J