The rivalry between the Chicago Cubs and the San Francisco Giants is a storied and captivating chapter in the annals of Major League Baseball.
Dating back to the late 19th century, these iconic franchises have engaged in countless battles on the baseball diamond, igniting the passion of their dedicated fanbases.
From historic ballparks like Wrigley Field and Oracle Park to the presence of legendary players, the Cubs vs. Giants rivalry has woven a tapestry of memorable moments and fierce competition.
This introduction sets the stage for a journey into the rich history, iconic matchups, and lasting impact of two teams that have etched their names in baseball lore.
History: Chicago Cubs Vs San Francisco Giants
The history of the Chicago Cubs and the San Francisco Giants is filled with compelling stories, legendary players, and moments that have shaped the landscape of Major League Baseball.
Let’s compare the histories of these two iconic franchises
Establishment and Early Years
Chicago Cubs: The Cubs were established in 1876 and are one of the oldest franchises in MLB.
They were originally known as the Chicago White Stockings and have gone through several name changes before adopting the Cubs moniker in 1903.San Francisco Giants: The Giants were also founded in 1883, making them one of the oldest continuously operating professional baseball teams.
They started their journey in New York as the New York Gothams and later became the New York Giants before relocating to San Francisco in 1958.
Championships
Chicago Cubs: The Cubs have won three World Series titles in their history. Their championships came in 1907, 1908, and the long-awaited victory in 2016, ending a 108-year championship drought.
San Francisco Giants: The Giants have won multiple World Series titles in their history. They secured their first championship in 1905 as the New York Giants.
After moving to San Francisco, they won World Series titles in 2010, 2012, and 2014, establishing a dominant presence in the 2010s.
Ballparks
Chicago Cubs: The Cubs’ historic home stadium is Wrigley Field, one of the most iconic ballparks in baseball.
Wrigley Field is renowned for its ivy-covered outfield walls and its unique atmosphere, which adds to the charm and nostalgia of the Cubs’ games.San Francisco Giants: The Giants play their home games at Oracle Park (formerly known as AT&T Park).
This picturesque ballpark, located on the San Francisco Bay, offers stunning views of the water and city skyline, making it a fan-favorite and one of the most beautiful stadiums in MLB.
Fanbase: Chicago Cubs Vs San Francisco Giants
Chicago Cubs
The Chicago Cubs fanbase, also known as “Cubs Nation,” is renowned for its unwavering loyalty and enduring support, exemplified by their resilience throughout the historic championship drought lasting over a century.
Wrigley Field, the iconic home stadium since 1914, lies at the core of their fan culture, drawing enthusiasts from all corners with its historic charm.
Game days ignite a vibrant atmosphere, with fans gathering in nearby establishments, sharing a strong camaraderie.
Their passion, deep emotional investment, and generational connections make attending a Cubs game a cherished family tradition.
The euphoria of the Cubs’ 2016 World Series victory united generations of fans in jubilation and celebration.
San Francisco Giants
The San Francisco Giants fanbase, affectionately known as the “Orange and Black” faithful, displays immense passion and dedication in supporting their team.
With three World Series championships in the 2010s, their loyalty has deepened, attracting both new and longtime supporters.
Oracle Park, a picturesque stadium along the San Francisco Bay, enhances the game-day experience with stunning views.
Giants fans create an electric atmosphere, especially during thrilling postseason runs. The “Knothole Gang,” an embodiment of the fans’ creative spirit, watches games outside the right-field fence at Oracle Park.
The Cubs-Giants rivalry adds extra excitement, fueling the enthusiastic spirit that defines the Giants’ fanbase.
Iconic Moments: Chicago Cubs Vs San Francisco Giants Rivalry
The rivalry between the Chicago Cubs and the San Francisco Giants has produced several iconic moments over the years. These moments have left a lasting impact on both franchises and have contributed to the excitement and intensity of their matchups.
Here are some of the most memorable iconic moments from their rivalry
The “Merkle Boner” (September 23, 1908)
In a critical late-season game, the Cubs and the Giants were tied 1-1 in the bottom of the ninth inning. With the bases loaded, Giants player Fred Merkle singled, apparently scoring the winning run.
However, due to a baserunning mistake by Merkle, who failed to touch second base, the Cubs tagged him out. This resulted in a disputed tie, and the game had to be replayed, eventually leading the Cubs to win the National League pennant and eventually the World Series.
“The Homer in the Gloamin'” (September 28, 1938)
In a crucial game for the pennant race, the Cubs were facing the Giants at Wrigley Field. With darkness setting in, Cubs player Gabby Hartnett hit a dramatic walk-off home run in the bottom of the ninth inning to secure a crucial victory for the Cubs.
The moment became immortalized as “The Homer in the Gloamin'” and remains one of the most iconic moments in Cubs history.
1989 NLCS Game 1 (October 4, 1989)
In Game 1 of the National League Championship Series (NLCS), the Cubs and the Giants engaged in an epic marathon battle that lasted until the 13th inning.
Cubs second baseman Ryne Sandberg hit a game-tying home run in the bottom of the ninth inning, but the Giants ultimately prevailed with a 5-3 victory.
The game set the tone for a fiercely competitive series.
2016 NLDS Game 4 (October 11, 2016)
In a thrilling Game 4 of the National League Division Series (NLDS), the Cubs faced the Giants at AT&T Park (now Oracle Park).
With the Giants leading in the ninth inning and on the verge of forcing a decisive Game 5, the Cubs staged a remarkable comeback, scoring four runs to win 6-5 and advance to the NLCS.
Cubs-giants Pitchers’ Duel (May 26, 1998)
In a memorable pitching duel, Cubs ace Kerry Wood faced off against Giants pitcher and future Hall of Famer Randy Johnson.
Both pitchers delivered incredible performances, combining for 30 strikeouts in the game.
The Cubs eventually won 2-0, with Wood striking out 20 batters in what became a legendary display of pitching prowess.
Recent Performance: Chicago Cubs Vs San Francisco Giants
Series 1 (July 29 – July 31, 2022)
Location: Oracle Park (San Francisco, CA)
Result: Giants sweep Cubs in a three-game series.
Game 1: Giants 6, Cubs 2
Game 2: Giants 5, Cubs 3
Game 3: Giants 5, Cubs 2
Series 2 (September 9 – September 11, 2022)
Location: Wrigley Field (Chicago, IL)
Result: Cubs win two out of three games in the series.
Game 1: Cubs 4, Giants 2
Game 2: Giants 15, Cubs 4
Game 3: Cubs 5, Giants 4 (10 innings)
Chicago Cubs Vs San Francisco Giants Rivalry
| Season | Date | Venue | Winner | Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1908 | Sep 23 | Polo Grounds | Chicago Cubs | 4-2 (replay) |
| 1938 | Sep 28 | Wrigley Field | Chicago Cubs | 6-5 |
| 1989 | Oct 4 | Wrigley Field | San Francisco | 5-3 (13 inn) |
| 2016 | Oct 11 | AT&T Park (Oracle) | Chicago Cubs | 6-5 |
| 1998 | May 26 | Wrigley Field | Chicago Cubs | 2-0 |
| 2012 | Jun 2 | AT&T Park (Oracle) | San Francisco | 5-2 |
| 2015 | Jul 5 | Wrigley Field | Chicago Cubs | 2-0 |
| 2019 | Jul 23 | Oracle Park | San Francisco | 5-4 (13 inn) |
| 2008 | Sep 21 | AT&T Park (Oracle) | San Francisco | 5-1 |
| 1984 | Aug 10 | Wrigley Field | Chicago Cubs | 8-7 (11 inn) |
FAQs
When did the Chicago Cubs and San Francisco Giants first face each other?
The Cubs and Giants first faced each other in Major League Baseball on April 20, 1890, during the 1890 season.
What is the most memorable postseason encounter between the Cubs and Giants?
One of the most memorable postseason encounters between the Cubs and Giants was during the 2016 National League Division Series (NLDS), where the Cubs staged a thrilling comeback in Game 4 to advance to the NLCS.
Which legendary players have represented both the Cubs and the Giants during their careers?
Hall of Fame outfielder and one of baseball’s greatest players, Willie Mays, is a notable player who played for both the Giants (in New York and San Francisco) and the Cubs during his career.
What is the significance of the “Homer in the Gloamin'” game between the Cubs and Giants?
The “Homer in the Gloamin'” refers to a dramatic walk-off home run hit by Cubs player Gabby Hartnett in the ninth inning of a crucial 1938 game against the Giants. The moment became an iconic part of Cubs history and propelled them to the 1938 National League pennant.
How many World Series titles have the Cubs and Giants won in their respective histories?
The Chicago Cubs have won three World Series titles (1907, 1908, and 2016), while the San Francisco Giants have secured eight World Series titles, including five in New York (1905, 1921, 1922, 1933, and 1954) and three in San Francisco (2010, 2012, and 2014).
To Recap
The rivalry between the Chicago Cubs and the San Francisco Giants stands as a testament to the rich history and enduring passion of Major League Baseball.
Over the years, these iconic franchises have given fans countless memorable moments, from dramatic postseason showdowns to legendary players gracing the field.
Cubs fans’ unwavering loyalty and the Giants’ “Orange and Black” faithful create a vibrant and electric atmosphere that elevates the excitement of every game.
As the rivalry continues to evolve, it serves as a reminder of the deep connections between teams and their supporters, inspiring new generations to cherish the timeless tradition of America’s pastime.
