Date: May 7, 2025
Time: 2:20 PM ET
Venue: Wrigley Field, Chicago, IL
Broadcast: Marquee Sports Network, NBC Sports Bay Area
Matchup Overview
The San Francisco Giants (23-14) and Chicago Cubs (22-15) meet for the final game of their three-game series at Wrigley Field. The Giants secured a dominant 14-5 victory in Game 2, scoring nine runs in the 11th inning, marking a franchise record for most runs in an extra inning.
Chicago, despite the loss, remains first in the NL Central, while San Francisco sits third in the NL West. The Cubs will look to bounce back and avoid a series sweep.
Starting Pitchers
San Francisco Giants – Robbie Ray (4-0, 3.12 ERA, 38 K)
- Last Start: 6 innings, 2 earned runs vs. Colorado.
- Season Stats: 3.12 ERA, 1.18 WHIP, .234 opponent batting average.
- Analysis: Ray has been dominant, holding opponents to three earned runs or fewer in five of his six starts. His ability to control Chicago’s power hitters will be key.
Chicago Cubs – Ben Brown (3-2, 4.88 ERA, 35 K)
- Last Start: 6 innings, 0 earned runs vs. Milwaukee.
- Season Stats: 4.88 ERA, 1.42 WHIP, .295 opponent batting average.
- Analysis: Brown has been inconsistent, but his last outing was his best of the season. If he can replicate that performance, Chicago has a strong chance to win.
Key Players to Watch
San Francisco Giants
- Jung Hoo Lee – Batting .312 with an .871 OPS, providing consistency at the top of the lineup.
- Wilmer Flores – Delivered three RBIs in Game 2, heating up offensively.
- Matt Chapman – Has been clutch, driving in two runs in the 11th inning of Game 2.
Chicago Cubs
- Pete Crow-Armstrong – A defensive standout, but needs to step up offensively.
- Ian Happ – Struggled in Game 2, striking out in the 11th inning.
- Carson Kelly – Looking to rebound after a tough outing.
Game Storylines & Predictions
1. Can Chicago Recover from the Extra-Inning Collapse?
The Cubs were tied 5-5 in the 11th inning before allowing nine runs, marking a historic meltdown. They’ll need a strong start to shake off the loss.
2. Giants’ Offensive Momentum
San Francisco’s 16-hit performance in Game 2 showcased their depth. If they continue to hit well, they could overwhelm Brown early.
3. Pitching Duel – Ray vs. Brown
Ray has been one of the best pitchers in the NL, while Brown is coming off his best start of the season. The winner of this battle could decide the game.
Game Odds
San Francisco Giants 7
Chicago Cubs – 148
Odds Courtesy of Sports Odds Direct as of Tuesday, May 6, 2025
