Chicago Cubs Score and Recap (7/31/22): Giants 4, Cubs 0 – Rodón, Giants Blank Cubs

The Cubs hoped to salvage a series split with the Giants on Sunday night in the final game before the trade deadline. Chicago was dominated from the start by the opposition pitcher and were shutout.

Adrian Sampson started very well for the Cubs, not giving up anything for the first three innings before imploding in the 4th. A walk and a hit-by-pitch helped to load the bases for San Francisco with two out and former Cub farm hand Jason Vosler blooped a two-run single to left.

Back up catcher Austin Wynns drilled a double over Nelson Velazquez in center to plate two more runners and put the Giants up 4-0. That was more than enough for Carlos Rodon who dominated in seven shutout innings striking out 10. (Box score)

Why the Cubs Lost

The hitters could do nothing against Rodón on Sunday night making a four-run deficit look huge.

Eye on the Future

• Zach McKinstry made his Cubs debut striking out as a pinch-hitter in the 8th.

Stats That Matter

• Sampson had one sloppy inning Sunday: 4 IP, 4 R, 5 H, 6 K, and 1 BB.
• Four Giants were hit by pitches.

Bottom Line

Well that was the final game before the trade deadline Tuesday afternoon. This game provided no memories or bittersweet moments and the stage is set for whatever will happen next. I don’t know what that will be but be prepared for anything.

On Deck

A presumably new look Cubs kick off a three-game set in St. Louis Tuesday at 6:45pm CT. Keegan Thompson takes on Adam Wainwright in a game airing on Marquee Sports Network and 670 The Score.