Chi. Cubs Cubs vs San Francisco Giants Picks and Predictions June 19th 2024

Mourning Death of Willie Mays, Giants Set to Close Series with Cubs

A sentimental three-game series will end for the San Francisco Giants when they play the Chicago Cubs in a deciding match on Wednesday afternoon. The Giants are competing with saddened hearts after learning about the passing of franchise icon Willie Mays, announced just before Tuesday’s game began.

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Emotional Impact on the Giants

Willie Mays’ Passing

The atmosphere was gloomy for the Giants after their 5-2 defeat on Tuesday following the death of Willie Mays. Bob Melvin, manager of the Giants, shared his profound sadness and respect for the baseball legend Mays, with whom he had a personal bond.

“I grew up watching games at Candlestick Park and loved baseball because of Willie Mays, it meant that much,” Melvin said. “He was great. The fact that he even remembered me, to me, was an honor.”

Logan Webb’s Tribute

Giants’ starting pitcher Logan Webb also found it challenging to focus on the game, given the emotional weight of the news. “It was a sucky moment,” Webb said. “I got to meet Willie for the first time when I was 17. It’s a sad day for the baseball world.”
Game Preview and Pitching Matchup

Giants’ Starter TBD

The Giants had not yet named a starter for the series finale. The team will be looking for a strong performance to honor Mays’ memory and secure a series win.

Cubs’ Starter: Kyle Hendricks

The Cubs are sending pitcher Kyle Hendricks (0-4, 8.20 ERA) to pitch in the game. Hendricks, a former ERA leader and World Series champion, has faced challenges starting games this season but has demonstrated potential in recent relief outings. He hasn’t given up any runs in his last three appearances out of the bullpen, totaling 8 2/3 innings.

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Most recently, Hendricks impressed by retiring the first 11 hitters he faced and blanking the St. Louis Cardinals for 4 1/3 innings in a 3-0 loss last Friday after replacing injured starter Jordan Wicks.

“I think an outing like (Friday’s) is proof that that’s how Kyle conducts himself and goes about his day,” Cubs manager Craig Counsell said. “It’s to be ready for the next opportunity, no matter what is going on, or no matter what’s happened in the past.”

Team Updates and Player Highlights

Giants’ Recent Performance

The Giants are looking to rebound from their loss on Tuesday, which followed a thrilling 7-6 come-from-behind victory in the series opener on Monday. Despite the emotional burden, the team will strive to close the series on a high note.

Cubs’ Bullpen Adjustments

The Cubs have been facing problems with their bullpen, exemplified by Hector Neris allowing a three-run home run in the ninth inning on Monday. Keegan Thompson was called upon by Manager Craig Counsell to secure the 5-2 win on Tuesday, and Thompson succeeded by striking out all three batters in the ninth inning.

Blake Snell’s Progress

San Francisco Giants pitcher Blake Snell, who has won the Cy Young Award twice, is nearing the end of a 15-day IL placement because of a left groin injury. Snell practiced in the bullpen on Tuesday, and his return will be decided after an evaluation of his status.

“We’ll see how he comes in (Wednesday) and make a determination after that,” Melvin said. Snell has struggled this season, posting a 0-3 record with a 9.51 ERA in six starts.

Conclusion

Wednesday’s down between the San Francisco Giants is set to be both personal and extraordinary as they endeavor to win the series and honor Willie Mays’ inheritance. Anticipate that a close to home and connecting with end should the series as the Cubs’ Kyle Hendricks hopes to keep up with his great structure and the Giants handle their profound weight.

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