MLB Power Rankings: NL Central Week 7

This last week the National League Central was in the news a lot. There was a manager ejected before a game even started and a pitcher ejected for using a foreign substance. Michael Wacha improved to a perfect 7-0 and Ryan Braun continued his hot May. Here is a look at the power rankings in the division after seven weeks.

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5. Cincinnati Reds

The Reds may not have the worst record in the division, but they are playing the worst right now. They were swept by both the Royals and Indians this past week and have lost eight in a row. While their lineup has plenty of talent, they have simply been shut down.

This next week they will look to get back into contention as they open with the Colorado Rockies (who are also ice cold) before closing out the week with the Washington Nationals.

4. Milwaukee Brewers

The Milwaukee Brewers have finally moved out of the cellar in our rankings. Though they went 4-6 to close out their road trip, they have been playing much better of late. They were able to win a series against the Tigers before losing several close games in a four game series against the Braves. With pitchers like Kyle Lohse and Mike Fiers improving and Braun streaking, this team looks to climb into fourth place in the division, too.

Next week the Brewers head home to battle the red-hot San Francisco Giants and close out the month against the Arizona Diamondbacks.

3. Pittsburgh Pirates

The Pirates are getting hot again. After getting swept in a short two game series with the Twins, their offense took off against the Mets as they were able to close out the weekend with a sweep.

This next week they begin with the lowly Miami Marlins before heading west for a four game match-up with the Pirates.

2. Chicago Cubs

This past week for the Cubs finished with a 3-3 record, but it could have been great. After winning a series against the Padres, a bullpen collapse led to a loss of a winnable series to the Arizona Diamondbacks.

Heading back to Wrigley Field, the Cubs are in for a real battle this next week as they take on the Nationals and the Royals in a six game stretch.

1. St. Louis Cardinals

Though they didn’t win a series this past week, the Cardinals remain at the top of the division. After splitting with the Mets, they lost a tough series with the Royals. Though Adam Wainwright is gone for the year, pitchers like Wacha have continued to prove they are full capable of taking over the rotation.

Next week the Cardinals head home to take on the Diamondbacks, before finishing they week with a big-time match-up against the rival Los Angeles Dodgers who they have eliminated from the post season in each of the past two seasons.

Next: Week Six Power Rankings

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Schedule