MLB: Milwaukee 6, Chicago Cubs 2

CHICAGO, Sept. 17 (UPI) -- A three-run double in the first inning by Prince Fielder Wednesday ignited Milwaukee's much-needed 6-2 victory over the Chicago Cubs.

The Brewers overcame the early exit of starter Ben Sheets to halt a five-game losing streak. They slowed down Chicago's march to the National League Central title, moving to within eight games of the Cubs. Milwaukee stayed within a half game of the New York Mets in the wild card chase.

Chicago's magic number for clinching the division title remained at four.

Sheets left after two innings after complaining of tightness in his right forearm. Seven relievers then paraded to the mound and limited the Cubs to a run on five hits. Mark DiFelice (1-0) was credited with the win.

The Brewers protected a 3-1 lead for much of the game before adding three runs in the seventh, two of which scored on Corey Hart's single.

Jason Marquis (10-9) gave up Fielder's bases-clearing double and took the loss.