The Marin Chronicle’s Baseball Insider
The Cubs have been all over the place lately, and now they’re up against the San Francisco Giants. We’re digging into their recent ups and downs, how they play after a win, who’s back in the lineup, and what Giants fans across Marin County should think about before game day.
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A Season of Peaks and Valleys
Our North Siders are riding a rollercoaster, and the numbers—like those winding West Marin roads—tell a story. The data from recent games shows a team still searching for its groove.
The Opening Game Jinx
The Cubs just can’t seem to nail those series openers. They’ve dropped five straight and hold a rough 2-6 record in the first game of new series. Altogether, their series opener record is 8-12, so starting strong is clearly an issue.
Home Field Advantage (Mostly)
At home, things are a bit better. The Cubs have a .500 record (5-5), which is at least something for fans watching from Tiburon or Sausalito. But there’s a twist when they come in with momentum.
Riding the Wave of Victory
If the Cubs win the last game of a series, they seem to flip a switch. Their record jumps to 7-4 in the next opener. Maybe that’s a sign for San Rafael fans to crank up the volume when the Cubs are coming off a win.
Key Performers and Returning Strengths
Individual performances and getting players back from injury can really change the season’s direction. There’s a bit of hope in the air from Corte Madera to Fairfax with a key return.
Offensive Firepower Ignited
Last night, the Cubs pulled off a wild comeback against the Athletics. They outhit them 11-7 and came alive in the ninth after a pretty quiet first eight innings. That kind of late surge? It’s the grit that Marin County folks appreciate.
The Power of Runners in Scoring Position (RISP)
The Cubs managed six hits with runners in scoring position, five of them in that crazy ninth inning. That ties their season high. When they get at least four RISP hits, they’re 14-2—so if the bats wake up, San Anselmo fans have reason to get excited.
A Look Towards the Mound
The pitching rotation is always a big deal, and updates from the injured list get plenty of attention in Belvedere and Larkspur.
Cabrera’s Comeback Gives Hope
Edward Cabrera is coming back after two weeks out with a blister. His return should give the starting rotation a boost—kind of like finally getting some sun after a foggy week.
Facing the Giants: A Familiar Foe
The Cubs are about to take on the Giants, and their ace Robbie Ray is a real wildcard.
Ray’s Road Woes and Home Strengths
Robbie Ray’s season has been all over the map. On the road, his ERA is a shaky 6.23, and he’s given up nine homers in just over 30 innings. The Cubs might be able to take advantage of that, though Giants fans everywhere will be watching. Still, he’s a different beast at home.
Volatility on the Mound
Ray’s inconsistency means the Cubs can’t relax. This series could go any direction—kind of like the weather in West Marin, honestly.
Game Day Considerations
If you’re planning to watch, whether at Wrigley or from a Mill Valley couch, a couple of things are worth keeping in mind.
Weather and Broadcast Information
There’s a chance of rain at Wrigley, which, let’s face it, is just Chicago baseball. Marin folks know the drill. You can catch the game on Marquee Sports Network or MLB Network, so even if you’re not in Cubs or Giants territory, you’re covered.
Joining the Conversation
If you’re a die-hard Giants fan in Marin, McCovey Chronicles on SB Nation is where you’ll want to hang out. The site draws fans in for lively discussion and a bit of friendly debate.
They’ve rolled out new 2026 game discussion steps, which might take a moment to get used to. Readers can jump into the StoryStream and Live! threads for real-time coverage and chatter.
Honestly, it’s a fantastic way to connect with other fans—whether you’re catching the game in San Rafael or halfway across the state.
Here is the source article for this story: Chicago Cubs vs. San Francisco Giants preview, Friday 6/5, 1:20 CT
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