Giants Triumph Over Cubs with Strong Performance

SAN FRANCISCO — Matt Chapman’s two fumbles, a successful bunt, and a solid hit in the fifth inning managed to produce more runs than the Giants scored in their previous two games combined.

This was more than enough support for Logan Webb, who delivered another impressive outing in his fourth start after dealing with bursitis in his knee, leading to a 5-1 victory against the Cubs.

In his return from the disabled list, Webb has allowed just two earned runs across 27 1/3 innings. On Sunday, he went eight innings without giving up any runs, allowing seven hits while striking out seven batters.

Manager Tony Vitello took a moment to come onto the field after Webb surpassed 100 pitches. The Cubs had committed an error and left two runners on base with two outs in the eighth. However, after a brief discussion, Webb stayed in the game.

After a beat, Vitello raised his arms, seemingly nervous about his choice.

But then things turned quickly. The very next batter, Michael Busch, connected with Webb’s 106th pitch, sending it toward the right-field corner. It looked like two more runs would come in.

Yet, Jeong-Hoo Lee sprinted after the ball, which hit the wall, catching Webb off guard and igniting cheers from the crowd of over 40,000.

Lee’s catch not only kept the game steady but helped the Giants take the lead in the fifth inning.

Lee, returning from an 18-game hitting streak that ended on Friday, contributed two hits in four at-bats, including an unusual hit with a broken bat during the fifth inning. Daniel Suzak laid down a bunt to second, and No. 9 hitter Drew Gilbert added a shallow fly down the left field line, securing the initial run.

Then Chapman came through, hitting a line drive over the center field wall for a three-run home run, marking his seventh homer of the season and his sixth this month.

Chapman, leading off for this game, had his first chance as the leadoff hitter in three seasons with the Giants—only his third time batting first in 1,221 major league games.

Vitello initially considered placing Luis Arraez at the top of the order and moving Eldridge to second, but opted to switch them around instead, keeping Chapman in the leadoff spot. Clearly, it was a decision that paid off, as the Giants finally found their rhythm after scoring just one point in two prior games.

What This Means

Rather than sticking to a traditional leadoff hitter, it seems Vitello is trying to get the hottest players the most at-bats.

Casey Schmidt was once the go-to leadoff option but has struggled recently, leading to less focus on him. Now it’s Chapman’s time to shine.

Who is Hot

Chapman has been on a roll since May 17, batting .344 (with 31 hits in 90 at-bats). His home run was his 14th extra-base hit during this stretch, contributing 24 hits and 19 RBIs in just 26 games.

Who is Not?

The Giants continue to wait for their three key infielders to find their rhythm together.

While Chapman’s performance has been solid, Rafael Devers and Willie Adames have struggled, combining for 5 hits in 43 at-bats (.116 average) over a six-game homestand.

Looking Ahead

The Giants are set to take a chartered flight to Atlanta, enjoy a day off on Monday, and kick off a three-game series against the NL East-leading Braves.

Adrian Hauser, Robbie Ray, and Landen Loop are slated to start in the opening match of this series.