Cubs defeat Brewers 5-2

MILWAUKEE (AP) — Dexter Fowler led off the first with a homer and drove in three runs in his first game back from the disabled list, powering Chicago past Milwaukee.

Fowler went 3 for 4 with a walk and scored twice after being sidelined more than a month with a strained right hamstring. His two-run double to left with the bases loaded in the second drew rousing cheers from the bevy of Cubs fans visiting Milwaukee.

Jason Hammel (9-5) allowed four hits and two runs over five-plus innings for his second victory since the All-Star break for NL Central-leading Chicago. He never trailed after Fowler slugged a 3-1 pitch from Jimmy Nelson (6-8) over the center-field wall to lead off the game.

Hector Rondon pitched a scoreless ninth for his 17th save.

Hernan Perez had a run-scoring double for the Brewers, and Ryan Braun hit a solo homer.