NL Central Race: September 1, 2008

MLB.com: Marquis sharp, but Oswalt sharper

Roy Oswalt combined with Jose Valverde for a four-hit shutout, and Miguel Tejada tripled and scored two runs Monday to lead the Houston Astros to a 3-0 victory over the Cubs and extend their losing streak to three games. Oswalt (13-9) gave up a leadoff single to Geovany Soto in the third and a leadoff infield hit to Ryan Theriot in the sixth, struck out three and did not walk a batter

MLB.com: Gagne can’t hold lead for Sheets

Making their strongest push for the franchise’s first playoff berth since 1982, the Brewers held their breath as Sheets left his start early with left groin tightness, and the Mets pounced late on the Brewers bullpen to churn out a 4-2 win on Labor Day. Sheets did not seem worried about the ailment after the game, which took precedence over the outcome.

CHC 85-53 
MIL 80-57 (4.5 GB; 5.5 game lead in the wildcard)