Chicago Cubs vs San Francisco Giants Picks and Predictions May 6th 2025

Verlander, Giants Aim to Halt Cubs’ Hot Offense

The San Francisco Giants have a tall order Tuesday night at Wrigley Field — slow down the most dangerous offense in baseball. After getting outslugged 9-2 in the series opener, the Giants turn to veteran ace Justin Verlander to try and stop the bleeding against a Chicago Cubs team that has been absolutely raking.

Chicago is off to a sensational start at the plate, leading the majors in runs scored, hits, and batting average. Now they’ve won four of their last five and are closing in on another series victory. But Verlander isn’t just another arm. He’s a future Hall of Famer — and he’s still got plenty of heat left in the tank.

Let’s break down where these teams stand and what to expect from this primetime matchup.

Cubs’ Offense Is Rolling

This Cubs lineup is scary good right now. Monday’s blowout marked the fifth time in seven games they scored at least six runs. They lead all of MLB in:

• Runs (217)
• Batting Average (.262)
• Hits (332)

And what makes this offense so tough to handle? Everyone’s contributing — from top to bottom.

Carson Kelly Heating Up

Catcher Carson Kelly has become one of the most productive hitters in the lineup. On Monday, he hit his eighth home run of the season and is now batting .361 with 23 RBIs.

“Offense from that position is hard to find in this league,” manager Craig Counsell said. “When you get it, it makes your offense dangerous.”

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Cubs Pitching: Colin Rea Steady So Far

Chicago will send Colin Rea (2-0, 1.46 ERA) to the mound. The 34-year-old veteran has been solid in the early going and is coming off a six-inning, two-run start against the Pirates in an 8-3 win.

Trouble With the Giants?

Rea’s one big hurdle? His history against San Francisco. He’s 1-3 with an 8.57 ERA in four career starts against them. But this is a different year, and Rea is pitching with renewed control and confidence.

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Giants: Error-Prone and Off Track

San Francisco kicked off its six-game road trip in the worst way — a four-error night in a game where they were already struggling to keep up offensively. Manager Bob Melvin didn’t sugarcoat things:

“Just an off night,” he said. “We’re better than that defensively.”

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Matos Showing Promise

The lone bright spot was 23-year-old Luis Matos, who hit a two-run homer in the fourth — his second in three games. Melvin noted the difference consistent playing time is making for the young outfielder.

“Getting consistent at-bats is beneficial,” Melvin said. “Looks like he’s swinging the bat a lot better.”

San Francisco is banking on more from young hitters like Matos, but their established stars will need to wake up quickly if they want to avoid a series loss.

Explore player development trends and upcoming matchups in the Expert Betting Guide.

Verlander: The Giants’ Ace in the Hole?

There’s no one better suited to stop a hot offense than Justin Verlander (0-2, 4.38 ERA). The 42-year-old hasn’t won a game yet for the Giants, but his last outing was his best — 6 1/3 innings of two-run ball in a no-decision against the Rockies.

Rare but Dominant Against Cubs

Verlander has only faced Chicago three times in his career, but he’s been dominant: 2-0 with a 1.50 ERA. His veteran poise and pitch sequencing will be key to navigating a Cubs lineup that punishes mistakes.

He’s still chasing his first W with the Giants, and there’s no better time than now.

Find pitching projections and performance-based betting tips on the MLB Odds Page.

Game Outlook: Strength vs Strength

This game is shaping up to be a classic strength vs strength showdown — Chicago’s relentless offense against Verlander’s Hall-of-Fame arsenal.

Keys for the Cubs

• Keep applying pressure up and down the lineup
• Get another steady start from Rea
• Avoid chasing Verlander’s changeup and breaking pitches early in counts

Keys for the Giants

• Play clean defense — no more four-error nights
• Hope Verlander can set the tone and go deep
• Matos and the young bats must continue to step up

This series is a tone-setter for both clubs. A win by the Cubs could send another clear message: this offense is no fluke. A win by Verlander and the Giants would prove they can hang with the league’s hottest lineups.

FAQs

Why is Chicago’s offense so effective?
They lead the league in runs, hits, and batting average. The key is production from the entire lineup — even catchers and bottom-of-the-order guys are contributing.

Can Colin Rea maintain his hot start?
He’s been solid in 2024, but has historically struggled against the Giants. Tuesday is a big test for him.

Is Justin Verlander still elite?
While he hasn’t won yet this season, Verlander is coming off his best outing and has excellent career numbers against Chicago.

Who is the Giants’ most promising young hitter?
Luis Matos is swinging a hot bat, with two home runs in his last three games. He’s finally getting consistent at-bats.

What are the Cubs playing for this week?
They’re looking to win their third straight series and continue climbing in a competitive NL Central.

Where can I find expert game picks?
Check out the MLB Picks Page for daily insights and predictions.