Here's a look at how they got to this place:
What went right
As owner Mark Attanasio put it, general manager David Stearns hit for a high batting average in his offseason moves. Feliz did not work out, but the addition of left-handed bats at first base (Thames) and third (Travis Shaw), plus the continued development of younger hitters like Domingo Santana, boosted the Brewers' production by nearly a run per game. The Brewers finished the first half fourth in the NL in runs scored.
For the pitching staff, Jimmy Nelson has stepped forward in his age-28 season to lead a starting rotation beset by some significant injuries.