Afternoon Box Score: Giants Roll Cubs

In spite of several solid innings for starter Sean Marshall, a rough first inning gave the Giants an edge over the Cubs that the North Siders would never overcome, losing 6-2. Marshall gave up three runs in that top of the first before settling down for the next several innings. The Cubs offense had to play from behind with many starters sitting thanks to a night game last night and a road trip starting tomorrow. Mike Fontenot and Sean Marshall, helping his own cause, got RBIs in the second and fifth innings, respectively.

Still, the day belonged to Giants ace Tim Lincecum who struck out seven and gave up both runs on only five hits over seven innings. Things ultimately fell apart for the Cubs in the top of the eighth as Marshall and Samardzija worked in tangent to give up three more runs to allow the Giants to go ahead for good. Marshall, who earned the loss, pitched seven-plus innings and gave up five runs. If there was a bright spot for the Cubs, it was Bobby Scales who got his first major league hit and made a nice play filling in at second base.

The Cubs hit Houston and Milwaukee on the upcoming five-game road trip.