The National League Central has turned into a narrative where the Milwaukee Brewers set the pace, while the Chicago Cubs operate in a supporting role that, despite moments of brilliance, remains secondary in the division story.
A look back at the 2023 NLDS reveals how the Cubs briefly threatened Milwaukee before a decisive showdown highlighted the Brewers' depth and preparation. In 2024 the Cubs again trailed by three games, with standout performances from Pete Crow‑Armstrong and Alex Bregman failing to close the gap.
A Bullpen in Transition
Heartbreaking defeats in Seattle and Atlanta exposed a persistent weakness in the Cubs' relief corps, a flaw that has kept postseason dreams on hold despite solid outings from starter David Peterson and a revitalized lineup.
The front office is actively addressing that vulnerability, targeting arms such as Ben Brown, Justin Steele and Daniel Palencia, while the consistency of Trent Thornton and Aaron Civale could provide the stability needed for a deep October run.
Beyond the immediate bullpen concerns, the organization’s rebuild since 2017 points toward a 2026 squad that may finally translate promise into a season that feels satisfying, even if the division crown remains out of reach for now.