National League Central may have the best race in MLB

Oct 3, 2014; Los Angeles, CA, USA; St. Louis Cardinals left fielder Matt Holliday (7) reacts after he hits a three run home run in the seventh inning against the Los Angeles Dodgers in game one of the 2014 NLDS playoff baseball game at Dodger Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Richard Mackson-USA TODAY Sports /

6 of 6

Credit: Daniel Shirey-USA TODAY Sports /

1. Pittsburgh Pirates (94-68)

The Pittsburgh Pirates fell a bit short the last two seasons, but they are looking to change that in 2015.

Andrew McCutchen is looking to continue his MVP-caliber play and will lead the offense once again, but don’t forget that he will patrol the field with his gold glove ability.

A key to the Pirates offense will be Pedro Alvarez. Even with the Pirates’ success last season, Alvarez had a horrible season. Aside from battling foot injuries, he just could not hit. He had a hitting slash of .231/.312/.405.

Alvarez also had trouble with his arm, making some bad throws over to first from third base. This season, he will be playing first base, so whatever problems he had with throwing won’t be a big concern.

With the loss of Russell Martin, the Pirates will need Alvarez to provide his usual power numbers. If he can’t, then the Pirates may fall short for yet another year.

Another important piece for the Pirates is Gerrit Cole. Cole had 138 strikeouts in 138 innings last year. He was the seventh pitcher at age 23 or younger to throw that many innings and have as many strikeouts as innings. He will need to have a big year for the Pirates to take a step up.

The NL Central race will be fluid for most of the season. The Cardinals and Pirates and even the Cubs for awhile will spend time at the top. If will be a fun ride until the end, when two teams from this division will make it to the playoffs. Then the real fun begins.

Home/Chicago Cubs