Giants vs Cubs Picks and Prediction – 5/6/2025

The San Francisco Giants (22–14) continue their series against the Chicago Cubs (22–14) at Wrigley Field on Tuesday evening. First pitch is scheduled for 7:40 PM ET, with coverage on MARQ and NBC Sports Bay Area. Both teams are tied atop the National League standings, making this matchup a potential playoff preview. Get in on all the action with our free MLB picks.

The Giants look to bounce back after a 9–2 loss in the series opener, where defensive miscues led to four errors and a five-run sixth inning for the Cubs. Veteran right-hander Justin Verlander (0–2, 4.38 ERA) takes the mound, seeking his first win as a Giant. Despite the winless record, Verlander has delivered three consecutive quality starts, indicating he's finding his rhythm. Offensively, first baseman Wilmer Flores leads the team with seven home runs and 31 RBIs, while center fielder Jung Hoo Lee boasts a .303 batting average, .359 OBP, and .485 SLG. 

The Cubs are riding high after their decisive victory in the opener, highlighted by Ian Happ's home run and three RBIs. Right-hander Colin Rea (2–0, 1.46 ERA) gets the start, bringing a stellar 1.05 WHIP and 21 strikeouts over 24.2 innings. Chicago's offense is potent, with right fielder Kyle Tucker leading the team with nine home runs and 30 RBIs, and left fielder Ian Happ contributing a .287 batting average and .370 OBP.

While Verlander's experience is invaluable, the Cubs' current momentum and Rea's impressive form give them the edge in this matchup. We have been backing Rea since his time on the Brewers and he's been reliable for us. We will once again back Rea and take the Cubs to win this one 5-3.