Giants' bats ignite, Cubs eye rally spark

The San Francisco Giants have showcased a powerful offense recently, achieving a season-best run total and a 20-hit game. They recently split a four-game series with the Milwaukee Brewers, winning 12-9. This offensive surge follows a dominant 19-6 victory over the Colorado Rockies. Jung Hoo Lee is currently on a career-best 12-game hitting streak, the longest active streak in Major League Baseball. He is batting .522 during this period, raising his season average to .322. Eric Haase hit a grand slam, and Casey Schmitt also homered in their latest win.

The Chicago Cubs are looking to build on a dramatic 7-6 victory over the Athletics. Trailing by three runs entering the ninth inning, they scored four runs to secure the win. Dansby Swanson tied the game with a two-out single, and Pete Crow-Armstrong delivered the game-winning hit. This win was only their fourth in their last 18 games, highlighting their need for momentum.

Opening the series on Friday, the Giants will start left-hander Robbie Ray (3-6, 4.45 ERA). Ray has struggled in his recent starts, posting a 9.00 ERA over his last four outings. However, he has a strong career record against the Cubs with a 2.20 ERA in seven starts. The Cubs will counter with right-hander Edward Cabrera (3-2, 4.00 ERA), who is being activated from the 15-day injured list due to a blister issue. Cabrera has a 1.91 ERA in five career starts against San Francisco.