Chicago Cubs: Who stands in the way of the NL Pennant?

Pittsburgh Pirates

Key adds include: Juan Nicasio, Jason Rogers, Ryan Vogelsong, Jon Niese, Kyle Lobstein, John Jaso

The Pirates are returning several stars to its lineup in 2016 headed by Andrew McCutchen, Gregory Polanco, Josh Harrison, and Starling Marte. Beyond that, Pittsburgh’s lineup doesn’t look too intimidating.

They lost two major contributors on offense in Pedro Alvarez and Neil Walker this Winter. They will also be missing Jung-ho Kang for at least the start of next season because of injury. The Pirates added John Jaso to play first, but the power the 32-year-old provides won’t come close to the departed Alvares, as Jaso has 37 home runs in 550 games.

The Pirates have what every team wants and that’s an ace in Gerrit Cole. While their 2-3-4 options are not as appealing as other playoff contenders, Francisco Liriano, Niese, and Vogelsong will provide quality innings throughout the year for Pittsburgh. The back end of their bullpen will be very good once again, as Mark Melancon has a firm hold of the ninth with Tony Watson acting as a reliable piece.

Unfortunately for the Pirates, they find themselves looking up at the now contending Cubs and mainstay Cardinals. If I were to guess, I would say the Pirates are the odd team out in a very competitive NL Central.

Next: Not next time