Chicago Cubs: Previewing the 2017 National League Central

Pittsburgh Pirates

Key additions: Daniel Hudson

Key losses: Sean Rodriguez, Jeff Locke, Matt Joyce, Neftali Feliz

The Pirates took a step back last year, finishing under .500 for the first time in four years, all while seeing star player Andrew McCutchen regress. The Pirates lost some good bench players over the offseason. Sean Rodriguez may be the toughest to replace because he can play nearly every position, and provide good power off the bench. That’s not easy to replace.

Pitching

The Pirates had to rely on a lot of young arms last year. Top prospects Jameson Taillon, Tyler Glasnow, and Chad Kuhl all played a big role at times last season. Gerrit Cole was sidelined for some of the years with a nagging elbow injury.

The Pirates dealt closer Mark Melancon at the trade deadline last year, and Tony Watson filled in well at closer. Look for Watson to close games again this year, with guys like Daniel Hudson, Jared Hughes, and Felipe Rivero all playing key roles in the pen.