Cubs Series Preview

Upcoming Series: San Francisco Giants at Chicago Cubs
Location: Wrigley Field

Dates & Times:

Game 1: Monday, June 17 - 7:05 PM CDT
Pitching Matchup: Jordan Hicks (RHP, 4-3, 3.01 ERA, 64 SO) vs. Javier Assad (RHP, 4-2, 2.81 ERA, 72 SO)
TV: Marquee Sports Network, NBCS BA

Game 2: Tuesday, June 18 - 7:05 PM CDT
Pitching Matchup: Logan Webb (RHP, 6-5, 3.02 ERA, 78 SO) vs. Justin Steele (LHP, 0-3, 3.22 ERA, 48 SO)
TV: Marquee Sports Network, NBCS BA

Game 3: Wednesday, June 19 - 1:20 PM CDT
Pitching Matchup: TBD vs. Kyle Hendricks (RHP, 0-4, 8.20 ERA, 31 SO)
TV: Marquee Sports Network, NBCS BA

Series Overview:

The Cubs are set to host the San Francisco Giants at Wrigley Field in a three-game series starting on June 17th. After a disappointing series against the St. Louis Cardinals, where they lost two out of three, the Cubs (34-38) are looking to rebound. Meanwhile, the Giants (35-37) are also coming off a series loss, having dropped two of three games to the Angels despite scoring 20 runs over the weekend.

Pitching Matchups:

Game 1: Jordan Hicks (4-3, 3.01 ERA) vs. Javier Assad (4-2, 2.81 ERA)
Game 2: Logan Webb (6-5, 3.02 ERA) vs. Justin Steele (0-3, 3.22 ERA)
Game 3: TBD vs. Kyle Hendricks (0-4, 8.20 ERA)

Hitter to Watch on the Cubs:

Michael Busch

Michael Busch has been a hitting well the last 10 days for the Cubs, hitting at a .375 average with a .529 BABIP over his last 28 at-bats. His nine hits, including seven singles and two doubles, highlight his ability to make solid contact. While a regression in BABIP is expected, Busch’s performance indicates he can be a key offensive contributor against the Giants' tough pitching staff.

Hitter to Watch on the Giants:

Heliot Ramos

Heliot Ramos has been on a tear for the Giants in June, batting .386 with a .509 wOBA. With 22 hits, including six home runs in just 57 at-bats this month, Ramos is a formidable presence at the plate. His recent hot streak makes him a crucial player for the Giants, and Cubs fans should keep a close eye on him throughout the series.

What to Watch For:

• Key Strategies: Hit the Darn Ball!
  The Cubs need to ignite their offense and start hitting the ball effectively. Their batting approach will be crucial against a Giants team that has shown they can score in bunches.

• Interesting Subplots:
  Kyle Hendricks returns to the starting rotation on Wednesday after a solid relief appearance last week. With Ben Brown out due to a neck issue, Hendricks is stepping up as the Cubs' starter. His performance will be critical as the Cubs look to bolster their pitching depth.

Superfan Series Prediction:

• Predicted Outcome:

  • It would be a miracle if the Cubs could win two out of three games against the Giants.
    Game 1: Cubs Loss - 3-2
    Game 2: Cubs Win - 4-3
    Game 3: Cubs Loss - 6-2

Superfan Notes:

• Personal Fan Notes:
  Exciting news for the Cubs as RHP Ethan Roberts has been selected to the 40-man roster and optioned to Triple-A Iowa. Roberts, who missed the entire 2023 season recovering from Tommy John surgery, has been impressive in the minors with a 0.00 ERA in 11.1 innings. His addition could be a boost to the Cubs’ bullpen later this season.

  Call to Action:
  Cubs fans, what are your thoughts on the upcoming series against the Giants? Will Busch continue his hot streak? Can Hendricks stabilize the rotation? Share your predictions and join the discussion!