SAN DIEGO (Interstat) — The National League Central-leading Milwaukee Brewers open a crucial three-game road series against the San Diego Padres on Monday night at Petco Park.

The Brewers (95-61), who clinched a playoff spot last week, look to rebound after a 5-1 loss to the St. Louis Cardinals on Sunday. Their pitching staff will aim for a stronger start after a combined rough outing from Robert Gasser and Erick Fedde.

The Padres (85-71), winners of two straight over the Chicago White Sox, are fighting to solidify their postseason positioning. Their bullpen, featuring Robert Suarez and Adrian Morejon, has been sharp, and starter Michael King tossed five scoreless innings in his last appearance.

The teams last met in June in Milwaukee, where the Brewers took two of three games in a low-scoring set that included a pair of shutouts. A Interstat game simulator projects a high-scoring affair Monday, favoring the Brewers 6-5.

First pitch is scheduled for 6:40 p.m. PDT.