Milwaukee Brewers: NL Central Offseason Overview and 2022 Preview

Cincinnati Reds

Prior to the 2020 season, the Reds went all in and were big spenders that offseason in an effort to extend their competitive window. Just two years later, the front office realized that they needed to shed some of their larger contracts. That led to departures from several of their key players and a return to rebuild mode.

The list of players that the Reds parted ways with this offseason is extensive, to say the least. It includes Nick Castellanos, Jesse Winker, Eugenio Suarez, Tucker Barnhart, Sonny Gray, Amir Garrett, and Wade Miley.

It is possible that more players will get traded during the season as Mike Moustakas and Joey Votto’s names have already floated around the rumor mill. They did bring in pitchers Mike Minor and Hunter Strickland, but that is obviously nowhere close to replacing the talent that was lost. The remaining players on the roster will have a lot to prove this season.

Pittsburgh Pirates

The Pirates remain a very young and unproven team and are going to be willing to give many prospects extended looks at the big league level. Ke’Bryan Hayes is one player to keep an eye on.  He struggled mightily last season but when healthy could a very good all around player.

27-year-old switch hitter Bryan Reynolds also will be looking to put together a solid season for the third time in four years after he hit over .300 and had a career high 24 home runs in the 2021 season.

During the offseason, the Pirates added former Brewer Daniel Vogelbach. “Big Dan” is likely to split time between first base and DH and is replacing Colin Moran, who was let go by the club.  They also added former Cub Jose Quintana, who along with serving as a starter will be a mentor to their younger pitchers.

At this point, it seems the Pirates are still pretty far away from being serious contenders to compete for a division title.