Kevin Newman faces a pivotal season in PIT. Plus, bench options in STL, outfield depth in MIL and CHC, and rotation options in CIN.

Tim Locastro has the chance to earn playing time in ARI and has speed in bunches. Plus, saves speculation in SD and COL, bench bats in LA, and breaking down the depth chart at catcher in SF.

Nico Hoerner has a chance to win the everyday job at second base for CHC. Plus, a starting rotation overview in STL, banking on a bounceback from Omar Narváez in MIL, closer speculation in PIT, and an uninspiring shortstop competition in CIN.

Gavin Lux will have to displace an established veteran to earn everyday playing time as the roster is currently constructed in LA. Plus, depth rotation options in SD and SF, Brendan Rodgers' chances of regular playing time in COL, and Daulton Varsho's outlook in ARI.

Craig Kimbrel is far from a lock to maintain the closer role for the entire season in CHC. Plus, rotation depth in MIL and PIT, lineup balance in STL, and sorting through the outfield in CIN.

Eric Hosmer and Trent Grisham could lose playing time due to the Padres' offseason additions. Plus, the rotation in ARI, the impact of Brandon Belt's injury in SF, a look at the Bauer Effect LA, and the first base job in COL.

Jordan Hicks is ready to re-assume the closer role in STL. Plus, outfield platoons in CHC, the left field situation in PIT, balancing offense and defense behind the plate in CIN, and depth at third third base in MIL.

The NL Central has universally gotten worse to this point in the offseason. That promotes both playing time and opportunity and plenty of questions as we inch towards the regular season. Read on for the details.

Ke'Bryan Hayes just made his debut but may already be on the move in PIT. Plus, rotation options for 2021 in STL and CHC, young prospects ready to take over bigger roles in CIN, and preparing for the end of the Braun era in MIL.

Jesse Winker appears to have solved LHP in CIN...but is that a good thing? Plus, a few intriguing pitching prospects in PIT, an outfielder to keep an eye on in STL, a closer in waiting in MIL, and pushing all in CHC.

Dan Vogelbach is back in the NL Central and in a position to succeed. Plus, beware of streaming pitchers at CIN, Colin Moran has a future in PIT, the CHC rotation is in trouble, and the decline of Matt Carpenter has continued in STL.