by Tom KrasovicFiled under: Brewers, Cubs, Padres, Royals, NL Central, MLB Transactions, MLB Hot Stove
The Brewers last won a division title in 1982. They'll likely lose slugger Prince Fielder to free agency next winter. Impressive drafts under Jack Zduriencik years ago have given them enough talent to maneuver in the trade markets and challenge for October. So if not now, when, then, to push for the playoffs? What would another rebuilding plan have meant to Brewers fans, who impressively ranked among the top half in league attendance each of the last four years?
The Brewers are right to go for it now, even if it stings to part with as many prospects as they have this month, even if the Reds and Cardinals still look like the National League Central's top two teams and the Cubs may be ready to rebound.
General manager Doug Melvin's trade for No. 1 starter Zack Greinke on Sunday also makes the patchy neighborhood a lot more interesting. Greinke is a true ace when he's healthy and in good form. Pitchers of his ilk are rare throughout the majors, yet more so within the NL's biggest and most underachieving division. Outside of St. Louis, home to the Cardinals' tandem of Chris Carpenter and Adam Wainwright, there were no other true aces in the NL Central before Sunday.
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