Nelson struck out five and walked two while giving up seven runs -- six earned -- over five innings in a losing effort against the Cardinals on Wednesday. A five-run first inning was the main blemish for Nelson, who at least rebounded to salvage a Brewers bullpen that had to deal with a 17-inning game Sunday against Arizona. Nelson fell behind hitters too often Wednesday, throwing a first-pitch strike to 13 of the 25 batters he faced. The big difference for Nelson overall this season has been an increased walk rate (3.3 BB/9) after he showed signs of ironing out his control woes last season in a 14-game stretch with Milwaukee. He'll face the Pirates on Monday at PNC Park before a June 13 turn against the Nationals at home.