The San Francisco Giants play host to the Chicago Cubs on Saturday night in the third game of the weekend series between these two foes. Even though they spend time in separate divisions, these two have a deep history with each other. The first two games have seen a split between the two, with Saturday setting the tone as they head into Sunday. In 2021, the Giants won six of seven in the series and are hoping they can find a way to replicate that success in this one.
It has been nothing short of an up and down season for the Cubs so far in 2022 but finally are seeing the wins come. They’ve only lost once in their last handful of games and even though they lost Friday night, momentum and confidence still seem like it would be on their side. Being on the road has been a challenge all season long though for this group and Saturday night could expose that issue. With time running out on the season, the Cubs know this is a crucial series to find a win in.
The injury list has been far from ideal for this group as well, though they are slowly working their way back into health. Nick Madrigal (groin) appears to be the biggest absence in the lineup, while the middle infield continues to lack depth. Adding to that is three bullpen arms out, only further testing this team.
Late-night W!
Wisdom: 2 -for-3, HR, BB, 2 R
Stroman: 6 IP, 0 R, 3 K
Givens: 1 IP, 0 R, 2 K@Vegas pic.twitter.com/kYg8zOKivw— Chicago Cubs (@Cubs) July 30, 2022
According MLB.com, Drew Smyly will get the ball for the Cubs as he looks to improve on a slow start to the season. The lefty comes into this one with a 3-5 record and a 3.93 ERA, making things a challenge for himself and the Cubs when on the mound. With his WHIP also rising, the Cubs may have to score more than usual to give him the support they need.
Offensively, this group continues to be limited by some of the talent in the lineup. They rank in the bottom half of baseball in nearly every offensive category, topping out at just OPS, where they rank 13th. Nico Hoerner (.300 average) has been dangerous at the top of the lineup, while Patrick Wisdom (19 HRs, 50 RBI) has provided his own power. Beyond those two though, the depth is limited, which could cost them on Saturday.