MLB Rumors: 2 Bold Predictions for the NL Central

The National League Central division was the only division in the NL that had three teams over .500 in 2021. The likes of the Cincinatti Reds, St Louis Cardinals and Milwaukee Brewers all won more games than they lost and this trend isn't likely to continue heading into 2022. Let's take a look at two predictions for the NL central heading into next season.

Cincinatti Reds Don't Reach 75 Wins

The Reds have already made major changes to their roster and there's plenty more where that came from. After trading beloved catcher Tucker Barnhart, Reds general manager Nick Krall is expected to move both Sonny Gray and Luis Castillo. This will shed the team of nearly $20 million in 2022 and make ownership happy as they are looking to pay minimal salaries and tear the roster down. Money is playing a huge role for the team in 2022 and don't expect the team to win very many games. They just don't care too. 

Cubs Welcome Back Anthony Rizzo But Not Success

The Chicago Cubs are re-tooling on the fly as they have recently traded away a bunch of their core but have also gone out and signed free-agent starter Marcus Stroman. Some feel Anthony Rizzo will be returning to the club via free agent signing and that's expected to be announced once the lockout is over. From there however, don't expect the Cubs to be a threat out of the Central. The team has too many holes and even though they will be a tough team to play against, they aren't going to finish the season above .500. Look for the Cubs to win 78-80 games in 2022, and don't be surprised if you see the team bring back Rizzo and trade away Frank Schwindel. 

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