Shohei Ohtani homered for the second consecutive game, but the Los Angeles Dodgers' recent struggles continued with a 6-5 loss

Defense lets the struggling Dodgers down as they fall to the Brewers, who sweep the weekend series at Dodger Stadium.

After sweeping the Dodgers in Milwaukee prior to the All-Star break, the Brewers notched three more wins in LA this weekend to close out he season series.

A history-making sweep of the Dodgers ran the Brewers' win streak to 10. It also created an undeniable belief within the clubhouse.

Their lead in the NL Central grew to 6 ½ games on June 17. They haven't even been playing poorly lately -- they are still on pace to win 97 games -- but the lead has dwindled. In fact, the Cubs and Brewers are tied for first place.

The Brewers occupy an interesting space as a small-market franchise enjoying consistent success, especially as an MLB labor stoppage looms.