The Chicago Cubs have needed a lift. The Cubs started the first game of the Tuesday doubleheader against the Milwaukee Brewers nine games back in the National League Central. The Cubs were four up on Cincinnati, who is looking to grab one of the final three wildcard spots.

The Cubs went into the All-Star break tied with the Los Angeles Dodgers for the most runs scored in MLB at 508. Considering Shaw leads the team in home runs and RBI since the break, a strong offense could have turned into a juggernaut.

The Chicago Cubs could have a star pitcher on their hands. Daniel Palencia has been incredible in over 40 appearances for Craig Counsell's club.

The Cubs rookie outfielder came through in a big way at the plate during Tuesday's 6-4 victory over the Brewers.

BOTTOM LINE: The Chicago Cubs lead 2-1 in a five-game series against the Milwaukee Brewers. Chicago has gone 40-24 at home and 72-54 overall. The Cubs have gone 32-10 in games when they did not allow a home run.

The Milwaukee Brewers once trailed the Chicago Cubs in the National League Central by 6 1/2 games. That is no longer the case.

Since he started in the All-Star Game, Chicago Cubs outfielder Kyle Tucker owns a .182/.333/.239 slash line with just three extra-base hits and six RBIs.

Kyle Tucker is trying to break out of a prolonged slump, and the Chicago Cubs are doing whatever they can to help the All-Star outfielder

It hasn't been the best of times for Kyle Tucker, and now the Chicago Cubs will hope time away from the grind will help their star slugger.