When Francisco Rodriguez accepted the Brewer’s arbitration offer, the hope of retaining their All-Star first baseman Prince Fielder went from small to practically gone. While losing Fielder obviously hurts, fans should still be optimistic about the Brewer’s chances to repeat as division champions in 2012.
The defending World Series champion St. Louis Cardinals took an even bigger hit when Albert Pujols signed with the Angels. The Cincinnati Reds have an inconsistent pitching staff and the Pirates and Cubs are probably a few years away from truly competing. Then there is also the Houston Astros who were the only team to lose 100 games in 2011.
So as much as it stings losing Fielder, the NL Central is still Milwaukee’s for the taking.
The following reasons are why the Brewers should be the favorites to win the NL Central.