MILWAUKEE BREWERS (55-43, 2ND PLACE, NL CENTRAL)
BIG PICTURE
The Brewers led the National League Central for most of the first half until losing eight of their last 10 games before the All-Star break and ceding first place to the Chicago Cubs. However, the Brewers have the look of a contenders, and it seems likely the two I-94 rivals will battle to the wire for the division title.
BEST PERFORMANCE
Center fielder Lorenzo Cain was signed to a five-year, $80 million contract as a free agent in January and has been worth the money. The former Kansas City Royals standout is hitting .293 with 18 stolen bases.
BIGGEST SURPRISE
First baseman Jesus Aguilar looked as if he might be the victim of a roster squeeze in spring training despite hitting 16 home runs as a rookie last season. However, the 28-year-old not only made the opening-day roster, he was selected to his first All-Star Game after a big first half. His 24 homers lead the league.
BIGGEST DISAPPOINTMENT
Shortstop Orlando Arcia finds himself at Class AAA Colorado Springs (Colo.) after hitting .197.
TRADE-DEADLINE FORECAST
The Brewers are in win-now mode. Though the biggest need would seem to be a top-of-the-rotation starting pitcher, they have been linked to Baltimore Orioles shortstop Manny Machado.
KEY SERIES
vs. Chicago Cubs Sept. 3-5
John Perrotto