When the Milwaukee Brewers beat the Chicago Cubs in the opener of a 5-game series, it bunched the top 4 NL wild-card contenders within 5 1/2 games.

The Milwaukee Brewers set a single-season franchise record with their 14th straight victory Saturday. And, in keeping with recent form, it wasn’t easy.

Aug 17, 2025; Cincinnati, Ohio, USA; Cincinnati Reds designated hitter Austin Hays (12) celebrates with teammates after hitting a walk-off single in the tenth inning against the Milwaukee Brewers at Great American Ball Park. Mandatory Credit: Katie Stratman-Imagn Images / Katie Stratman-Imagn Images

On the other hand, via Clay Davenport's third-order wins and losses, which project a team's winning percentage based on underlying statistics adjusted for quality of opponents, the Brewers are neck-and-neck with the Cubs,

Freddy Peralta allowed one hit and struck out six batters and the Milwaukee Brewers beat the Chicago Cubs 7-0 in the first half of a Monday doubleheader. All-Star pitcher Peralta (15-5, 2.78 ERA) shut Chicago out over six innings to help Milwaukee advance to an MLB-best record of 79-45.

Cincinnati Reds’ Trade Deadline Addition Ke'Bryan Hayes Draws Big Compliment from Milwaukee Brewers Manager Pat Murphy

The Reds played clean baseball Sunday to beat the Brewers, but defensive lapses earlier cost them the series — again.

Jose Trevino powered the Reds with clutch hits and defense as Cincinnati ended the Brewers’ 14-game win streak in extra innings.