NL Central Betting Preview: Brewers Lead Division Odds at +100

NL Central Betting Preview: Brewers Lead Division Odds at +100

By Michael Davidson

January 12, 2025 at 12:28 AM

A comprehensive analysis of the National League Central futures odds, focusing on each team's prospects:

Milwaukee Brewers (+100)

  • Elite pitching rotation with Woodruff, Burnes, and Peralta delivering top-six WAR performance
  • Strong bullpen anchored by Josh Hader
  • Offensive concerns persist, particularly with Christian Yelich's power limited by back injury
  • FanGraphs projects division win by 2 games with +8 run differential

St. Louis Cardinals (+195)

  • Potential to pursue top free agent pitchers like Carlos Rodón and Yusei Kikuchi
  • Trade possibilities include Oakland's Chris Bassitt and Frankie Montas
  • Strong offensive core with Nolan Arenado, Paul DeJong, and Paul Goldschmidt
  • Need pitching additions to become serious contenders

Cincinnati Reds (+450)

  • Strong outfield performance led by Jesse Winker's breakout season
  • Nick Castellanos provided elite production before free agency
  • Major pitching concerns with MLB's highest bullpen ERA
  • Loss of key arms Raisel Iglesias and Trevor Bauer impacts depth

Chicago Cubs (+1200)

  • Major roster overhaul following trade deadline selloff
  • Notable addition of Marcus Stroman on three-year deal
  • Significant gaps left by departures of Anthony Rizzo and Javier Báez
  • Likely entering rebuild phase

Pittsburgh Pirates (+3300)

  • Limited offseason activity due to MLB lockout
  • Significant distance from competitive status
  • Odds reflect long-term rebuilding outlook
  • Minimal immediate improvement expected

The division projects as a two-team race between Milwaukee's dominant pitching and St. Louis's balanced roster, with other teams facing various stages of reconstruction.

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