2014 NL Central Preview And Predictions

Mar 5, 2014; Phoenix, AZ, USA; Milwaukee Brewers left fielder

(8) hits a home run against the Oakland Athletics in the fourth inning at Maryvale Baseball Park. Mandatory Credit: Joe Camporeale-USA TODAY Sports

3) Milwaukee Brewers: 81-81

1- Why will this team exceed expectations?

Justin Schultz from Reviewing The Brew: The Brewers will exceed expectations because their starting rotation will overachieve. A rotation that includes, Kyle Lohse, Yovani Gallardo and Matt Garza, will be hard to beat. Signing Garza proved that Milwaukee expects to compete in 2014.

2- Why will this team fall short of expectations?

This Brewers will fall short of expectations if they are unable to stay healthy. Last year the injury bug bit them and the results suffered because of it. If the Brewers’ core group of guys (Ryan Braun (above), Ramirez, Gomez, Jean Segura) can stay healthy, good things will come.

3- Look for the team to make (this trade)

With the emergence of second baseman Scooter Gennett in 2013, Rickie Weeks has become expendable. If Weeks shows that he’s healthy and has a strong spring, the Brewers could move him. The New York Yankees are said to have interest in him. However, Weeks is getting paid $11 million this season, so finding a team who wants to take that burden might be tough.

4- Watch out for the emergence of (prospect)

Watch out for Tyler Thornburg this season. He’s already had a taste of the majors last season, and his results were fantastic. Because the Brewers acquired Garza, Thornburg will either start the year in the bullpen or start down in Triple-A. But don’t be surprised if he gets the call sometime this summer.