Cubs Face Pressure in NL Central Race Against Brewers

The Chicago Cubs are currently eight games behind the Milwaukee Brewers in the National League Central standings, with only 23 games left in the season. The Cubs split the first two games of their four-game series at Wrigley Field, entering Wednesday's matchup with a record of 78-61.

In the previous game, the Brewers secured a 9-4 victory, aided by two-run homers from Christian Yelich and Joey Ortiz. Milwaukee's offense rebounded after a heavy loss in the series opener. Cubs manager Craig Counsell expressed concerns about his team's defensive performance during a critical sixth inning.

As the series continues, Brewers ace Jacob Misiorowski, who has a 14-5 record and a 1.73 ERA, is set to pitch against Cubs left-hander David Peterson. Misiorowski's recent performance included a win against the New York Mets, while Peterson is looking to improve after a no-decision against the Cincinnati Reds.