MILWAUKEE (WSAU-TSN)  Talk about teams moving in opposite directions. The Brewers have won 14 of their last 16 games, while the Pirates have lost 14-of-17. Both teams stayed true to form on Friday night at Miller Park.

Zack Greinke pitched into the eighth inning, and Prince Fielder had three hits, including a home run, as the Brewers defeated the Pirates, 7-2, in the opener of a three-game series.

Greinke (11-4) lasted 7 2/3 innings, allowing two runs on six hits and a walk while fanning nine to earn his fourth straight winning decision.

Ryan Braun added a homer and two RBI. Prince Fielder homered after Braun's long-ball in the 8th inning.

Paul Maholm (6-13) allowed four runs -- three earned -- on seven hits through five full frames for the loss.

Michael McKenry went 2-for-3 with an RBI and a run scored for the Pirates.

The Cardinals, 6-1 winners over the Rockies, are still 4-games behind Milwaukee in the NL Central.

The Brewers and Pirates continue their series on Saturday. Game coverage begins at 2:35pm on AM-550 FM-99.9 WSAU.