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Brewers, Cardinals meet in NL Central battle

Apr 21, 2008 - 2:01 PM St Louis (12-7) at Milwaukee (11-7) 8:05 pm EDT

MILWAUKEE (Ticker) - The St. Louis Cardinals visit the Milwaukee Brewers Monday in a quick two-game series as both clubs attempt to keep pace at the top of the National League Central Division.

While the Brewers were expected to contend for the Central after breaking through last season, the Cardinals have been one of the surprises in the early going.

Holding the lead in the division until dropping three of four and being passed by the Chicago Cubs on Sunday, St. Louis has been winning with a surprisingly solid pitching staff.

Led by converted relievers Todd Wellemeyer, Braden Looper, Adam Wainwright and Joel Pineiro and joined by journeyman Kyle Lohse, the Cardinals have allowed the third-fewest runs in the National League.

Milwaukee has been playing tight games lately, going to a tenth inning three times in the last four games. The club dropped a 5-3 decision in the 10th Sunday when Eric Gagne - attempting to save his fourth straight game - surrendered three runs in the bottom of the frame.

The Brewers will send Carlos Villanueva (1-2, 6.19 ERA) to the mound on Monday. The 24-year-old righthander has lost his last two starts, allowing nine runs and 15 hits in 10 2/3 innings.

St. Louis will counter with Wainwright (2-1, 2.78). The de facto ace of the staff, Wainwright stymied Milwaukee last Wednesday, allowing two runs - one earned - in 7 2/3 innings while walking two and striking out six to earn the win.