What's at stake when the Chicago Cubs face the Brewers this week?

The upcoming three-game series between the Milwaukee Brewers and Chicago Cubs starting on Labor Day holds significant importance for both teams as they vie for the Central Division lead. The Brewers currently lead the division by seven games, but a loss to the Cubs would narrow that advantage to just seven games. Winning a game in the series would shave three games off the Brewers' magic number to clinch a playoff spot, while winning all three games would eliminate six games.

The Cubs, meanwhile, are dealing with a spotty bullpen that has surrendered 16 runs over the last 10 games, which could present opportunities for the Brewers. Pete Crow-Armstrong's batting performances against the Brewers have been weak, hitting just .108 with a .620 OPS in 10 games. The Cubs, however, have been knocking the Brewers around this season, posting a 9-11 record and going 4-1 against them in the season series.

A sweep of the Cubs would be a major boost for the Brewers, but securing a playoff spot still requires a combination of strong pitching and timely hitting, especially against the Cubs' formidable lineup.