MILWAUKEE _ A series that began with one of the worst games in years for the Cardinals _ one that left them describing it as "embarrassing" and not fit for the logo they wear _ ended with one as reassuring as the first game was ugly.
The varied and resourceful offense that the Cardinals have talked about all season, they showed in an 8-2 victory against Milwaukee at Miller Park.
Dexter Fowler had his first two-double game of the season, and he scored twice. Jose Martinez drilled a three-run home run as part of a five-run fourth inning that put the game away quickly. Matt Carpenter reached base three times, scored twice, and still had enough time in the game after the Cardinals had taken a huge lead to be double-switched out and take a breather.
Harrison Bader and Fowler reached base six times in their first six plate appearance of the game, and they provided four of the Cardinals' eight runs.
Every spot in the order but the two occupied by the battery reached base at least twice or scored at least one run in the game. A day after providing all of the Cardinals' runs with two home runs, Yadier Molina was held without a hit despite stinging two line drives. Fowler, batting right behind him, reached base three times and had a catch in right field to rob a double.
That helped starter Luke Weaver find his footing. The right-hander allowed a solo homer in the first inning and two runs while facing seven batters. A visit early in the game appeared to set Weaver up for a short outing, but he steadied from there. Weaver struck out nine in 52/3 innings and allowed only the two runs. He improved to 4-6.
The Cardinals split the four-game series with the Brewers, and that helps both teams gain ground against or ahead of the Chicago Cubs. The Cubs were swept in a series at Cincinnati.
The Brewers lead the division by two games. The Cardinals trail the Brewers by 4{ games.
