Milwaukee Brewers were riding high at the start of this game. Not only had Brewers won six of their last seven, but they possessed a 5-0 lead to begin the game. Milwaukee took full advantage of the winds blowing out in Wrigley to begin this game. And at some point, you had to think Chicago Cubs were going to do the exact same thing. That’s what happened as Cubs offense awoke from a recent slumber breaking out for nine runs including a big four-run fourth inning.

Player of the Game (Brewers): Travis Shaw – While Eric Thames continued to blast the ball, Travis Shaw had himself a night at the plate. Shaw went 3-for-4 with a home run, two doubles and three runs driven in. This is a welcomed sign to see from Shaw who has been struggling a little of late. Good to see him do work again versus a left-handed bat.

(Not) Manager of the Game (Brewers): Craig Counsell – He doesn’t usually get on the shit list, but why the hell did Jimmy Nelson go out for a sixth inning? He did not reach the 100-pitch plateau, but regardless, the wind was taking his pitches at that point of the game. Kyle Schwarber and Miguel Montero blasted two-run shots. There was no need to drag Nelson out again who struggled and ultimately gave up two more runs before getting pulled out of the game.

Player of the Game (Cubs): Miguel Montero – He’s been a pain in the ass for Brewers for quite some time so it’s no surprise he had a big day with his bat going 3-for-4 with a home run and two runs scored in the game. Miggy had himself an evening providing some offense from the bottom half of the order which is good to see for Chicago.

Positive: 2-3-4, let’s have some more – Holy hell, the Brewers middle of the order is downright scary right now. Eric Thames went 3-for-5, Ryan Braun went 2-for-4 and Travis Shaw had three hits as well. Those three combined for 8 hits on the night out of 12 at-bats with one home run, four doubles and three runs batted in. It’s too bad the rest of the order couldn’t find the heat, but these guys are rolling.

Negative: We’re on Jared Hughes watch – There isn’t a bullpen pitcher yet where you’re nervous every time he’s on the mound. But Jared Hughes is slowing approaching that level. After giving up a run in Saturday’s game, he turned around and gave up multiple runs with some charged to Nelson. He needs to be a factor for this bullpen, and the leash should be short if he can’t do it.

Next Up: Day baseball at Wrigley might not happen today. For Brewers, it would be great because they’d get an unexpected day off in the midst of a 10 straight days of baseball stretch. So maybe hope for the rain. I’m very doubtful they get this in with rain storms predicted all afternoon. If the patterns change, it’s Kyle Hendricks versus human batting practice known as Tommy Milone.

Charlie.