What a win for the Milwaukee Brewers. It’s hard to put into words how much this game meant for the team. It’s not a death sentence for Brewers’ chances in the NL Central if they were to lose both games at Wrigley Field, but Milwaukee would have lost the season series against Chicago then be five games back from their neighbors on the Northside of Chicago. Brewers were able to get the first game of the season with a dominating performance from Jhoulys Chacin, and Ryan Braun channeling his inner 2011 with two home runs giving Milwaukee a 7-0 win on Tuesday afternoon. Brewers are two games back, and they’re leading the Wild Card by a half game.

Player of the Game: Ryan Braun – Where the hell did this come from? Ryan Braun continues his incredible month of August with two homers and four RBIs this afternoon plus two massive bat flips. Braun screamed ‘LET’s FUCKIN GO’ into the Brewers clubhouse after his massive shot. Braun is putting the team on his back like he did for the playoff run in 2011 and 2008. Remember, Milwaukee got insanely hot in the month of August, and it helped separate the Brewers in the National League Central. Not saying that’s going to happen again, but the Brewers showed some real signs of life.

Player of the Game: Jhoulys Chacin – Last week, people scoffed at the idea of Jhoulys Chacin being the Wild Card game starter. This week, I think people are understanding why. He was masterful at Wrigley this afternoon going seven innings, striking out 10 batters and allowing three total hits. He worked out of a few jams but nothing serious. Chacin painted the corners masterfully and deserves just as much credit as Ryan Braan for this victory.

Silver Star: Erik Kratz – What a nice little day for Kratz behind the dish. He hit a home run and doubled in a run in the eighth to give Milwaukee some extra insurance. Kratz has been playing well in his last couple of appearances as the catcher. It’s nice to get support from the bottom of the order.

Next up: Milwaukee wraps up the series against Chicago tomorrow afternoon. Brewers will send Junior Guerra to the mound. Guerra hasn’t been all that special on the road this season, but he does have good numbers versus Chicago for his career. Cubs will roll out Kyle Hendricks. He’s been tough versus Milwaukee for his career, but he’s giving up more homers than usual this season. Let’s hope that continues on Wednesday. There’s a chance this game might not see the light of day with rain expected all afternoon and evening.