"It had been three months since "Hells Bells" had played at Miller Park. Three months since anyone even thought about turning that countdown banner beyond the Milwaukee Brewers' bullpen.

So much time had passed, in fact, that Trevor Hoffman was jolted as he came through the bullpen door to the roar of the 34,480 on hand Saturday night.

"It's hard to describe," Hoffman said when asked how it felt.

That banner did finally turn, to No. 597, as Hoffman recorded the final three outs of a 5-2 victory over the Houston Astros that rewarded lefty Randy Wolf with his first home victory since May.

"I had goose bumps," said reliever Todd Coffey, one of the many Hoffman disciples in the bullpen. "Everybody was on the front step of the bullpen and everybody was on the front step of the dugout. We were pumped."

Why this night to give Hoffman his first save opportunity since May 18? Yes, John Axford, who took over the closer's role when Hoffman blew five of 10 save chances, was available. And, with 16 saves in 17 chances, he has been as effective as ever.

Manager Ken Macha, who picked up his 500th managerial victory, revealed before the game that he had discussed the situation with Hoffman, who got back on track by posting a 1.50 earned run average over his previous 18 appearances, including eight consecutive scoreless outings.

During those meetings, Hoffman broached the possibility - if Macha felt comfortable with it - of getting some save opportunities with three-run leads, leaving room to summon Axford if things started to go awry. That's exactly what Macha did against the Astros, allowing the all-time leader to get one step closer to his coveted goal of 600 career saves.

" 'Mach's' biggest thing is to win games," said Hoffman, who put down the side in order. "It's about doing what's best for the team.

"Hopefully, this gives him confidence to put me back in there. But there's no controversy. 'Ax' is the closer. He's been great through this whole thing. It was nice to sneak one away from him."

Axford concurred that he wholeheartedly endorsed the decision to give Hoffman more save opportunities.

"I got excited, actually," said Axford. "I got chills, getting to hear that song at home again. We've all been pulling for Trevor through this. He has been tremendous.""