One of the worst teams in the NL Central has one of the league's best rotations.

WSJ: Feldman pitches Cubs to 8-2 victory over Mets

Cincinnati's starters have combined for a 3.38 ERA, the main reason the Reds lead the NL Central.

WSJ: Cincinnati Reds, Florida Marlins: Taking the Term 'Five-Man Rotation' Literally

His suspension hung over the NL Central champion Brewers all winter, and Roenicke was relieved to know he'll have Braun in his lineup from Day One.

WSJ: Ryan Braun, Milwaukee Brewers Slugger, Says 'Truth Prevailed' - MLB

And playing a large percentage of games each season against weaker foes from the NL Central only empowers Albert to continue his fast-track towards various historic performance milestones.

FORBES: Albert Pujols Versus The St. Louis Cardinals

Coupled with a solid bullpen, Cincinnati could finish one of the best records in baseball once again even with the lowly Houston Astros moving from the NL Central to the AL West.

WSJ: MLB 2013: Challengers gear up to take down Giants

The Cards outlasted the Atlanta Braves on the last day of the season and are now facing the Milwaukee Brewers in the NLCS. Who would have thought two teams from the traditionally weak NL Central would be vying for a World Series berth?

FORBES: 2011 Baseball Postseason Proving Small-Market Teams Can Win