Cubs Crash and Burn in 14-5 Blowout from the Giants

With the bullpen keeping the deficit at arm's length, the Cubs headed into the ninth inning with a legitimate chance to win while trailing 5-3. Thanks to Justin Turner and Kyle Tucker, the team rallied to tie the game.

It began to feel like the Cubs might come back to win. They had multiple opportunities to close the door on San Francisco. The emotional rollercoaster of Tucker's game-tying hit certainly made the situation ripe for taking.

Once the 11th inning came around, the wheels fell off as the Giants scored an unprecedented nine runs, pushing the score to 14-5. Ryan Pressly was unable to record a single out before exiting the game and handing the ball to Caleb Thielbar.  

With bullpen health as a high priority, losing 5-3 seems to have been in the best interest of the team, given the circumstances. Now, with nearly all his options used in one game, Craig Counsell will need to get creative for the rubber match on Wednesday.

Takeaways

While it's still early in the season, this was a game the Cubs had to win. Too many missed opportunities late were evident after the game was tied. If they had just a little bit more magic, this game had the signature Cubs magic.

Now the team must put this one behind them and get back in the win column before San Francisco leaves town. With every loss, the rest of the NL Central is getting closer and breathing down the Cubs' neck. 

What's On Tap Next?

Hoping to win the series, the Cubs are turning to right-handed pitcher Ben Brown to stop the Giants' offense Wednesday afternoon. First pitch is scheduled for 1:20 PM CDT on Marquee Sports Network. 

Opposing the young pitcher, the Giants will send veteran left-hander Robbie Ray to the mound. The 33-year-old has been impressive for a San Francisco team looking to win this series.