MLB 2008 Preview: National League Central

The National League Central has been a pretty mediocre division for the past several years. The Milwaukee Brewers were only 83 - 79 and flirted with the division for much of the season and 78 - 84 St. Louis hung around for a while too. This comes a year after the Cardinals won the division with a 83 - 79 record. The team could be mediocre once again this year but at least it should end with the Cubs trying to make another run at their curse.

1. Chicago Cubs
The Cubs didn't look good early and the overall record was not impressive but if the Cubs can get a quicker jump on the season this year they should be the favorites to win the National League Central.

The Cubs didn't lose any players of significance and have some young players that could improve this season. The shortstop, Ryan Theirot, is one player the Cubs are hoping will develop and Felix Pie is an outfielder with high hopes. The Cubs also have a rookie catcher named Geovany Soto and acquired one of the top Japanese players, Kosuke Fukudome.

The pitching staff that is in place could be the best in the National League Central as well. The rotation starts off with Carlos Zambrano. Ted Lilly was 15 - 8 last year with a 3.83 ERA, Rich Hill was 11 - 8 with a 3.92 ERA and Jason Marquis went 12 - 9. The Cubs will give Carlos Marmol a whirl at the closer spot with Kerry Wood always a backup possibility.

2. Houston Astros
Last year I raved about Roy Oswalt and Lance Berkman and both had good seasons, but not their usual greatness. I find it hard to believe they'll repeat that this year. Kaz Matsui, Lance Berkman, Hunter Pence, Miguel Tejada, Ty Wigginton and Carlos Lee could be a lethal lineup.

The Astros' problem comes on the pitching side of the game. After Roy Oswalt there isn't anything there that has looked good. They'll try and manage something with Woody Williams, Wandy Rodriguez and Brandon Backe, but none of them have been very good so far. The Astros at least think they found their post-Lidge era closer in Jose Valverde