The Stone Shields Show: Cincinnati Bengals, Reds, Bearcats Daily Sports Talk

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The Stone Shields Show. Sports Talk everyday. Covering the hottest topics.

  1. 23H AGO

    Cincinnati Bengals Updated Depth Charts, Reds Walked Off For Third Straight Game

    On today's show, we discuss the Reds getting walked off by the Cubs for the third consecutive night after Brock Burke issued a bases-loaded walk to Michael Busch in the bottom of the 10th inning. Also, we break down the updated Cincinnati Bengals depth chart as rookie minicamp approaches. The Stone Shields Show sponsors: Learn more about our friends at QC Kinetix! Call (513) 655-3356 or visit qckinetix.com  Anthony Muñoz 78 Cigars! Get your box today: https://www.anthonymunoz.com/anthony-munoz-78-cigars   Apply today at Sharefax Credit Union: Sharefax.org or call 513-753-2440 Get 20% off sitewide at Homage with promo code CHATTER at checkout: homage.com/CBOX  The Cincinnati Reds are finding new and increasingly painful ways to lose baseball games, and this week at Wrigley Field has turned into a full-blown nightmare. For the third straight night, the Reds were walked off by the rival Chicago Cubs, this time in a crushing 7-6 extra-innings loss that perfectly captured the frustration surrounding Cincinnati’s recent skid. What makes this stretch so brutal is that the Reds have had chances to win every one of these games. On Wednesday night, Cincinnati actually carried a 6-4 lead into the bottom of the ninth after a late offensive rally sparked by Spencer Steer. Then came another bullpen collapse. Pete Crow-Armstrong launched a game-tying homer, the crowd erupted, and the Reds suddenly looked rattled again. In the 10th inning, after intentionally walking Seiya Suzuki to load the bases, Cincinnati pitcher Brock Burke lost Michael Busch on a 3-1 pitch that nearly hit him, forcing in the winning run with a walk-off walk. That ending somehow felt even worse than the previous two nights. Monday’s defeat came on a Michael Conforto walk-off homer. Tuesday’s loss arrived on Busch’s RBI single in the 10th. By Wednesday, the Reds looked emotionally exhausted, and fans sounded the same way online, with many questioning the bullpen management and late-game execution. The losing streak has now stretched to six games overall, and what once looked like a promising season is suddenly drifting sideways. The Reds still have talent, especially with young stars like Elly De La Cruz and Matt McLain, but their inability to close games is becoming impossible to ignore. For three straight nights, they got close enough to touch victory — and watched the Cubs celebrate instead. Music from #InAudio: https://inaudio.org/ Track Name Holy (Trap). Music from #InAudio: https://inaudio.org/ Track Name Exercise (Rock). #Bengals #Reds #TheStoneShieldsShow

    1 hr

  2. 1D AGO

    Reds Walked Off Again, Dax Hill Staying Outside For Bengals? Joe Burrow Speaks

    On today's show, we discuss the Reds losing their 5th straight game and second straight in walk-off fashion. Plus, Dax Hill says he wants to stay at outside cornerback in 2026 and Joe Burrow speaks with Vanity Fair on the Bengals' offseason. The Stone Shields Show sponsors: Learn more about our friends at QC Kinetix! Call (513) 655-3356 or visit qckinetix.com  Anthony Muñoz 78 Cigars! Get your box today: https://www.anthonymunoz.com/anthony-munoz-78-cigars   Apply today at Sharefax Credit Union: Sharefax.org or call 513-753-2440 Get 20% off sitewide at Homage with promo code CHATTER at checkout: homage.com/CBOX  The Cincinnati Reds suffered a tough 3–2 extra-inning loss to the Chicago Cubs on Tuesday night at Wrigley Field, a game that slipped away late despite a strong overall performance. It marked another frustrating chapter in a series where Cincinnati has struggled to close out tight contests. Early on, the Reds looked in control. They jumped ahead with solo home runs from JJ Bleday in the first inning and Nathaniel Lowe in the sixth, giving them a 2–0 lead. Starter Andrew Abbott was sharp, holding the Cubs scoreless into the sixth inning and keeping their lineup largely quiet. His command and efficiency put Cincinnati in position to secure a much-needed win.  However, the game began to turn in the later innings. The Cubs chipped away with a run in the seventh before Michael Busch tied it in the eighth with a solo home run. From that point on, momentum shifted clearly in Chicago’s favor.  A critical moment came in the ninth inning when Reds closer Emilio Pagán exited with a hamstring injury after throwing just one pitch. His sudden departure disrupted the bullpen plan and forced Cincinnati to improvise in a high-leverage situation.  The game went to extra innings, where the Cubs completed the comeback. In the 10th, Busch delivered again with a walk-off RBI single, sealing the 3–2 victory and extending Chicago’s winning streak.  For the Reds, the loss highlighted recurring issues: missed opportunities, bullpen instability, and an inability to hold late leads. Despite solid pitching and timely early offense, they couldn’t finish the job. As the losing streak grows, Cincinnati will need to quickly regroup to avoid further slipping in the division race. Music from #InAudio: https://inaudio.org/ Track Name Holy (Trap). Music from #InAudio: https://inaudio.org/ Track Name Exercise (Rock). #Bengals #Reds #TheStoneShieldsShow

    57 min

  3. 2D AGO

    Cincinnati Reds Need To Make A Change At Closer, Cardinals Interested In Aaron Rodgers?

    On today's show, we discuss a devastating 5-4 Reds loss last night against the Cubs, where Emilio Pagan blew his third save of the season. Plus, are the Cardinals interested in Aaron Rodgers? Is it too early to crown Arch Manning as the #1 pick in the 2027 NFL Draft? The Stone Shields Show sponsors: Learn more about our friends at QC Kinetix! Call (513) 655-3356 or visit qckinetix.com  Anthony Muñoz 78 Cigars! Get your box today: https://www.anthonymunoz.com/anthony-munoz-78-cigars   Apply today at Sharefax Credit Union: Sharefax.org or call 513-753-2440 Get 20% off sitewide at Homage with promo code CHATTER at checkout: homage.com/CBOX  The Cincinnati Reds had nine innings to secure a win at Wrigley Field, and for most of the night, they looked capable of doing exactly that. They built an early lead, lost it, then fought back again—exactly the kind of gritty, back-and-forth game that defines a competitive club. But when the ball landed in Emilio Pagán’s hand in the ninth inning, everything unraveled in a way that has become painfully familiar. Pagán entered in a save situation with a 4–3 lead, tasked with recording just three outs. Instead, he recorded only two. A leadoff triple—helped along by a misplay in center—immediately put pressure on him. That runner soon scored on a sacrifice fly, erasing the lead and shifting momentum entirely to the Cubs.  Even then, the damage could have been contained. A tie game on the road is survivable. But Pagán couldn’t stop the bleeding. After getting one out, he delivered a pitch that Chicago’s Michael Conforto crushed for a walk-off home run, ending the game instantly and sealing a 5–4 Reds loss.  Statistically, it goes down as a blown save and a loss: two runs allowed on two hits in just two-thirds of an inning.  But numbers don’t fully capture the impact. This wasn’t just a bad outing—it was a gut punch in a game the Reds had every opportunity to win. What makes it worse is the broader context. Cincinnati has struggled to close out tight games during this stretch, and this collapse marked another one-run defeat during a losing streak.  In that sense, Pagán’s meltdown wasn’t isolated—it was emblematic of a bullpen that has been shaky when it matters most. Closers live on a knife’s edge. When they succeed, the job looks routine; when they fail, it’s magnified. On this night, Pagán didn’t just miss—he turned a winnable game into a crushing loss, and that’s the kind of outing that lingers well beyond a single box score. Music from #InAudio: https://inaudio.org/ Track Name Holy (Trap). Music from #InAudio: https://inaudio.org/ Track Name Exercise (Rock). #Bengals #Reds #TheStoneShieldsShow

    1h 1m

  4. 3D AGO

    DeAndre Hopkins Wants To Be A Bengal? Cincinnati Reds Swept By Pirates, 76ers Stun Celtics

    On today's show, we discuss the Reds getting swept by the Pirates in what was a series in which next to nothing went well for Cincinnati. Also, DeAndre Hopkins hinted at wanted to team up with Joe Burrow: Should the Bengals sign him? Plus, the 76ers come back from 3-1 to beat the Celtics, and Cam Young wins at Doral. The Stone Shields Show sponsors: Learn more about our friends at QC Kinetix! Call (513) 655-3356 or visit qckinetix.com  Anthony Muñoz 78 Cigars! Get your box today: https://www.anthonymunoz.com/anthony-munoz-78-cigars   Apply today at Sharefax Credit Union: Sharefax.org or call 513-753-2440 Get 20% off sitewide at Homage with promo code CHATTER at checkout: homage.com/CBOX  The Pittsburgh Pirates put together a dominant and well-rounded performance over the weekend, sweeping the Cincinnati Reds with wins of 9–1, 17–7, and 1–0. The three-game set showcased just how versatile Pittsburgh can be, winning with both explosive offense and lockdown pitching. The series opened with a convincing 9–1 victory, as the Pirates set the tone early. Their lineup applied steady pressure, stringing together hits and capitalizing on mistakes. Meanwhile, the pitching staff kept Cincinnati’s offense quiet, allowing little room for any comeback. It was a balanced effort that highlighted Pittsburgh’s ability to control a game from start to finish. If Game 1 was controlled, Game 2 was a full-on offensive eruption. The Pirates exploded for 17 runs, overwhelming the Reds in nearly every inning. Hits came from throughout the lineup, with multiple players contributing big performances. Extra-base hits, timely swings, and relentless pressure turned the game into a rout. Cincinnati simply had no answer, as Pittsburgh took advantage of every opportunity and showed the depth of its offense. The finale told a completely different story, but with the same result. In a tight 1–0 win, the Pirates relied on elite pitching and defensive execution. Every pitch mattered, and the staff delivered under pressure, shutting out the Reds and preserving the narrow lead. It was a testament to their ability to win in different ways—slugging when needed and grinding out close games when offense is scarce. Outscoring Cincinnati 27–8 over the series, Pittsburgh demonstrated a clear edge in execution, consistency, and adaptability. Whether through power at the plate or precision on the mound, the Pirates dictated the terms all weekend, leaving the Reds searching for answers as the division race continues. Music from #InAudio: https://inaudio.org/ Track Name Holy (Trap). Music from #InAudio: https://inaudio.org/ Track Name Exercise (Rock). #Bengals #Reds #TheStoneShieldsShow

    1h 2m

  5. MAY 1

    Bengals Make Mistake On Myles Murphy Decision? Reds Win 5th Straight Series + Steelers Have Become Unserious Organization

    On today's show, we discuss the Cincinnati Reds winning their 5th straight series in large part due to strong performances from Nathanial Lowe and Spencer Steer. Plus, did the Bengals make a mistake not exercising Myles Murphy's 5th-year option? The Steelers have become an unserious organization, and the Sixers force game 7 in Boston. The Stone Shields Show sponsors: Learn more about our friends at QC Kinetix! Call (513) 655-3356 or visit qckinetix.com  Anthony Muñoz 78 Cigars! Get your box today: https://www.anthonymunoz.com/anthony-munoz-78-cigars   Apply today at Sharefax Credit Union: Sharefax.org or call 513-753-2440 Get 20% off sitewide at Homage with promo code CHATTER at checkout: homage.com/CBOX  The Cincinnati Reds continued their impressive run of form yesterday, securing their fifth straight series victory with a win over the Colorado Rockies. What once looked like a team still searching for consistency has suddenly turned into one of the hottest clubs in baseball, riding a wave of strong pitching, timely hitting, and growing confidence. This latest series win didn’t just happen by accident—it reflected a team that is starting to execute in all phases of the game. The Reds’ pitching staff has tightened up significantly during this stretch, limiting big innings and giving the offense a chance to build leads rather than constantly playing from behind. Meanwhile, the lineup has shown an ability to produce in key moments, something that was inconsistent earlier in the season. Against the Rockies, the Reds demonstrated patience at the plate and aggressiveness on the bases, a combination that kept pressure on Colorado’s defense throughout the series. Young players continue to step up, while veterans are providing stability, creating a balanced roster that’s difficult to game-plan against. Winning five straight series is no small feat over the course of a long MLB season. It signals not just a hot streak, but a potential turning point. Momentum in baseball can be fragile, but it can also be powerful—and right now, the Reds have it firmly on their side. If they can maintain this level of play, the conversation around Cincinnati will quickly shift from rebuilding to contending. For now, though, the focus remains simple: keep stacking wins, keep taking series, and prove that this surge is more than just a temporary spark. Music from #InAudio: https://inaudio.org/ Track Name Holy (Trap). Music from #InAudio: https://inaudio.org/ Track Name Exercise (Rock). #Bengals #Reds #TheStoneShieldsShow

    57 min

  6. APR 30

    Bengals DECLINING Myles Murphy's Fifth-Year Option, Reds Obliterated By Rockies, Browns Starting Deshaun Watson?

    On today's show, Craig Sandlin joins Stone to discuss the breaking news of the day: the Bengals declining Myles Murphy's fifth-year option. Also, Brandon Williamson heads to the IL after the Reds get routed by the Rockies, and are the Browns going to start Deshaun Watson at QB this coming season? The Stone Shields Show sponsors: Learn more about our friends at QC Kinetix! Call (513) 655-3356 or visit qckinetix.com  Anthony Muñoz 78 Cigars! Get your box today: https://www.anthonymunoz.com/anthony-munoz-78-cigars   Apply today at Sharefax Credit Union: Sharefax.org or call 513-753-2440 Get 20% off sitewide at Homage with promo code CHATTER at checkout: homage.com/CBOX  The Cincinnati Reds’ 13–2 loss to the Colorado Rockies on April 29 was a sharp and somewhat surprising setback for a team that had been playing strong baseball. Entering the game having won eight of their previous ten, the Reds instead ran into an explosive Rockies offense that took control early and never let up. The game quickly unraveled for Cincinnati in the first inning. Starter Brandon Williamson struggled with command, issuing walks that helped load the bases before a three-run double put the Rockies ahead 3–0. That early deficit set the tone, and things only worsened from there. Colorado continued to capitalize on mistakes, building a steady lead while keeping the Reds’ offense largely in check. A major storyline was the performance of Hunter Goodman, who dominated the game with two home runs, three RBIs, and four runs scored. He led a Rockies lineup that totaled 15 hits and consistently delivered with runners in scoring position. Meanwhile, Brett Sullivan added three RBIs of his own, highlighting just how deep the offensive production went for Colorado. On the pitching side, Tomoyuki Sugano silenced Cincinnati’s bats. He threw 5 1/3 scoreless innings, allowing minimal damage and effectively ending any early hopes of a Reds comeback. In contrast, Williamson lasted only three innings before exiting with shoulder fatigue, further straining the Reds’ pitching staff. By the ninth inning, the game had become so lopsided that the Reds used catcher Jose Trevino as a pitcher, and the Rockies piled on five additional runs. Cincinnati avoided a shutout thanks to a late two-run homer from Will Benson, but it did little to change the outcome. Ultimately, the loss exposed pitching inconsistencies and missed opportunities, serving as a reminder that even hot teams can have off nights. Music from #InAudio: https://inaudio.org/ Track Name Holy (Trap). Music from #InAudio: https://inaudio.org/ Track Name Exercise (Rock). #Bengals #Reds #TheStoneShieldsShow

    58 min

  7. APR 29

    Elly De La Cruz Shines In Win Over Rockies, Bengals Exercising Myles Murphy's 5th-Year Option? Brendan Sorsby Questions

    On today's show, we react to the Reds' 7-2 victory last night over the Rockies in what was one of the most complete performances of the season including perhaps Elly De La Cruz's best game in the big leagues. Plus, the Bengals have a decision to make whether or not they exercise Myles Murphy's fifth-year option: What should they do? Also, the latest on Brendan Sorsby's gambling situation. The Stone Shields Show sponsors: Learn more about our friends at QC Kinetix! Call (513) 655-3356 or visit qckinetix.com  Anthony Muñoz 78 Cigars! Get your box today: https://www.anthonymunoz.com/anthony-munoz-78-cigars   Apply today at Sharefax Credit Union: Sharefax.org or call 513-753-2440 Get 20% off sitewide at Homage with promo code CHATTER at checkout: homage.com/CBOX  Elly De La Cruz delivered one of the most electrifying performances of the young season in the Cincinnati Reds’ 7–2 win over the Colorado Rockies, showcasing exactly why he’s considered one of baseball’s most dynamic talents. At the plate, De La Cruz was dominant. He went 3-for-4, drove in four runs, and launched a towering two-run home run in the eighth inning that effectively sealed the game. That blast was his 10th homer of the season, putting him in rare historical territory—tied for the most home runs by a switch-hitter before May since 1900.  His ability to generate power from both sides of the plate continues to separate him from most players in the league. But the night wasn’t just about offense. De La Cruz also made a highlight-reel defensive play that demonstrated his elite athleticism and instincts. On a difficult ball hit over the third baseman’s head, he tracked it down and fired an off-balance throw across his body to get the out by a half-step.  It was the kind of play that shifts momentum and energizes both teammates and fans. He added even more value on the basepaths, swiping two bases and further emphasizing his rare combination of speed and power.  This all-around performance—hitting, fielding, and baserunning—perfectly encapsulates what makes him a true five-tool player. Performances like this are becoming a pattern. De La Cruz has consistently tormented Colorado pitching, boasting a career batting average above .400 against the Rockies.  When he faces them, he seems to elevate his game even further. In a single night, De La Cruz impacted nearly every facet of the game. From clutch hitting to game-saving defense, he didn’t just contribute—he controlled the outcome. If this performance is any indication, he isn’t just having a hot streak; he’s emerging as one of MLB’s most influential stars. Music from #InAudio: https://inaudio.org/ Track Name Holy (Trap). Music from #InAudio: https://inaudio.org/ Track Name Exercise (Rock). #Bengals #Reds #TheStoneShieldsShow

    1h 2m

  8. APR 28

    Duke Tobin Takeaways, Brendan Sorsby Gambling News, Browns & Ravens Impressive Draft, Ty Simpson A Good Pick For Rams?

    On today's show, we react to Duke Tobin's press conference after the 2026 NFL Draft. Plus, the Ravens and Browns had an impressive draft while the Steelers struggled. Also, Brendan Sorsby checked himself into a gambling addiction program and did the Rams make the right move drafting Ty Simpson? The Stone Shields Show sponsors: Learn more about our friends at QC Kinetix! Call (513) 655-3356 or visit qckinetix.com  Anthony Muñoz 78 Cigars! Get your box today: https://www.anthonymunoz.com/anthony-munoz-78-cigars   Apply today at Sharefax Credit Union: Sharefax.org or call 513-753-2440 Get 20% off sitewide at Homage with promo code CHATTER at checkout: homage.com/CBOX  Duke Tobin focused primarily on how the Cincinnati Bengals approached roster building this offseason, emphasizing a disciplined, long-term strategy rather than reacting impulsively. He explained that the team entered both free agency and the draft with clear priorities—especially improving depth and athleticism on defense—while still maintaining flexibility for future seasons. A major theme was balance. Tobin noted that the Bengals didn’t want to overextend financially in free agency, instead targeting players who fit their system and culture. He highlighted that some needs were intentionally left for the draft, where the team believed it could find younger, cost-controlled talent. This approach reflects Cincinnati’s broader philosophy of building through the draft while selectively supplementing the roster with veterans. Discussing the draft itself, Tobin expressed confidence in the class, particularly pointing to defensive additions as a key step toward improving consistency on that side of the ball. He suggested the team prioritized versatility and players who can contribute early, rather than purely developmental prospects. He also indicated that collaboration between scouting, coaching, and personnel departments played a big role in aligning picks with scheme fit. Tobin also touched on roster competition, making it clear that no spots are guaranteed and that incoming rookies will have opportunities to earn roles. At the same time, he reinforced confidence in the current core, suggesting the team believes it can compete if it continues to develop internally. Overall, Tobin framed the offseason as a calculated, cohesive effort—balancing immediate needs with long-term sustainability—while expressing optimism that the moves made position the Bengals to improve in 2026 without sacrificing future flexibility. Music from #InAudio: https://inaudio.org/ Track Name Holy (Trap). Music from #InAudio: https://inaudio.org/ Track Name Exercise (Rock). #Bengals #Reds #TheStoneShieldsShow

    1h 4m
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