Chicago Cubs: Predicting the standings in the National League Central

Second Place: St. Louis Cardinals

Last year, they finished second in the division, 17 1/2 games behind their rival. They missed the playoffs the year after their rival eliminated them in the NLDS. And, their rival won the World Series for the first time in 108 years. That bitter pill could be a hard one to swallow, but it can also motivate the long-time NL Central leader.

The offense took a step forward in signing Dexter Fowler to lead off. A high on-base man and run machine for the Chicago Cubs, the St. Louis Cardinals hope they catch lightning in a bottle. Plus, Cub-killer Yadier Molina is still playing. However, the team that hit 225 home runs in 2016 cannot rely on the long-ball again. Losing Matt Holliday will be a massive blow to the team, more than I think they realize.

What must improve for the Cardinals in 2017 is their starting pitching. Carlos Martinez and finished with an ERA just above 3.00. No one else was below 4.50. Newcomer Mike Leake was a bust. If he returns to his 2013 form, the boost to the rotation would be amazing. With Alex Reyes out for the season, they need help. The addition of Brett Cecil and the resurgence of Kevin Siegrist will help a bullpen that allowed eight walk-offs.

What the experts say:

Bleacher Report: 90-72, second place

ESPN: 85-77, second place

Fangraphs: 84-78, second place

SB Nation: fourth place

Sports Illustrated: second place

Sporting News: second place

USA Today: 88-74, second place