MLB Predictions 2012: 10 Burning Spring Training Questions for the NL Central

Spring training is officially here baseball fans, and that means it's time to get down to business.

The National League Central Division underwent a major overhaul this offseason, and each and every franchise will have to iron things out before the regular season gets underway.

Here's a look at 10 burning questions facing the NL Central this spring.

Is Braun Ready to Go?

Ryan Braun is undoubtedly one of the most talented outfielders in the game today, but one has to wonder whether or not his focus will be in the right place given his eventful offseason.

Braun was cleared of steroid allegations last week, but will he be ready to go come Opening Day?

Can Milwaukee Replace Fielder's Production?

The Brewers were lucky enough to get Braun back for the start of the season, but they'll still have to deal with the loss of All-Star slugger Prince Fielder.

Milwaukee brought in third baseman Aramis Ramirez in hopes of picking up some of the slack, but will the long-time Cub provide enough pop to replace one of the league's most feared home run hitters?

Fat chance.

How Will Cincinnati Settle the Left Field Situation?

The Cincinnati Reds were one of the MLB's most active franchises this offseason, picking up an array of talented players, but with both Chris Heisey and Ryan Ludwick battling for the left field job how will the Reds settle the playing time situation?

Heisey has shown flashes of brilliance, but Ludwick has a wealth of big league experience.

Look for these two to battle it out all throughout spring training and to continue splitting time once the regular season rolls around.

Who Is the No. 5 Starter in Cincinnati?

The Reds have a rare problem on their hands: they may have too many talented starting pitchers.

Assuming that Johnny Cueto, Mike Leake, Bronson Arroyo and newly acquired Mat Latos all lock down starting spots, that leaves Homer Bailey and Aroldis Chapman to battle for the No. 5 slot in the rotation.

Bailey has more starting experience and showed signs of improvement last season, but both his consistency and durability have been questionable over the years.

Chapman, on the other hand, is a lefty flamethrower with absolutely nasty stuff, but his lack of starting experience is worrisome.

It should be interesting to see how the Reds choose to deal with the overcrowded staff.

Who Will Pick Up the Slack in St. Louis?

St. Louis didn't just lose some talent this offseason. They may have lost the greatest player of all time.

With Albert Pujols out of the picture, how will the Cardinals rebuild? 

Sure, they brought in Carlos Beltran and still have both Matt Holliday and Lance Berkman under contract, but will that be enough to keep the Cards in the playoff picture?

Only time will tell.

Is Mike Matheny the Real Deal?

The Cardinals won't just have new faces on the field this season, they'll have a new face on the coaching staff as well.

Following the departure of Tony La Russa, St. Louis brought in Mike Matheny as its new manager. 

He was a solid player in the league for several years, but his managerial skills have yet to be tested.

Is A.J. Burnett Ready to Make a Comeback in Pittsburgh?

The Pittsburgh Pirates made some waves this offseason bringing in veteran pitcher A.J. Burnett.

While he has posted more than a few solid seasons, Burnett's game seems to be on the decline as of late.

Pittsburgh has some serious young talent, so it should be interesting to see whether or not the addition of Burnett can push the Pirates to new heights.

Will the New Faces in Chicago Get Things Moving in the Right Direction?

Chicago's biggest offseason move was in the front office, bringing in a new GM in Theo Epstein.

While he has proven himself more than capable of building competitive teams over the years, he may be wading into new waters as he takes on the Cubs' job.

With a depleted roster and a new manager under his control, Epstein has his work cut out for him.

Who Is the Answer at 1st Base in Chicago?

Having lost slugger Carlos Pena, the Cubs will have to decide between career minor leaguer Bryan LaHair and newly acquired Anthony Rizzo at first base.

While LaHair seems to have the edge currently, Rizzo created a serious buzz while a member of the Padres and could very well give the older LaHair a run for his money.

Can Myers Find Success in the Bullpen?

The Houston Astros recently announced that they will be naming former starter Brett Myers their closer for 2012-13.

It sounds an awful lot like a desperation move, but let's face it...Houston is most certainly desperate.

We'll just have to wait and see how it all works out.