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PIT@MIL: Estrada strikes out 11 Pirates over 5 2/3

Wednesday afternoon's series finale between the Brewers and Phillies, who will go for a three-game sweep of Milwaukee at Citizens Bank Park, features two pitchers who came undone in their previous starts.

Take Vance Worley of the Phillies, who retired 13 of the first 14 batters he faced, striking out seven, before allowing eight of the final 13 batters to reach in a loss to the Giants on Friday.

"I missed my spots," said Worley, who gave up a sixth-inning grand slam.

In that start, Worley surrendered six runs on six hits in six innings, while issuing three walks, to tie a season high for most runs allowed.

On the other side, the Brewers' Marco Estrada has not surrendered more than three runs in any of his last four starts -- with 45 strikeouts -- but has yet to win this season.

Estrada's last start, on Friday, was marred by the long ball: he gave up three solo shots to the Reds, and two in one inning.

"The focus should always be there," Estrada said. "There's no excuse to lose focus."

Phillies: Pence wants to stay put
The Phils are reportedly eager to trade outfielder Hunter Pence, which would save about $14 million in 2013 payroll. Pence, however, would like to remain with the club.

"I want to play here," Pence said. "I want to win this year. I believe in us, and that's what I'm focused on. I'm not focused on what if something happens in the future. What if I die tomorrow? I'm not guaranteed another breath, so I'm going to go out and work as hard as I can today."

Brewers: Axford working way back toward closer role
John Axford didn't get a chance to close out Tuesday's game, as the Brewers lost, but the plan is that the righty -- removed from the closer role July 17 -- will eventually return to the ninth-inning spot.

"When we get Ax to where we think he's back to where he was, we'll slide him back in that role," said manager Ron Roenicke.

Worth noting
• Milwaukee's bullpen blew a 6-1 lead against the Phillies on Tuesday night to hand the Brewers their fifth straight loss, 7-6.

• Philadelphia has won three of four series since the All-Star break.

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