The Stone Shields Show: Cincinnati Bengals, Reds, Bearcats Daily Sports Talk
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17 hours ago
17 hours ago
On today's show we react to the Bengals beefing up their secondary by signing Kyle Dugger and Ja'Sir Taylor and Stone explains why the Dugger signing should not turn the Bengals away from potentially drafting Caleb Downs. Also, Nick Lodolo exited his rehab start with the Daytona Tortugas with another blister issue and we preview tomorrow's Final Four games.
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The Cincinnati Bengals made a low-risk but intriguing move by signing veteran safety Kyle Dugger to a one-year deal ahead of the 2026 season. The signing reflects a broader effort to stabilize a secondary that has been inconsistent in recent years, while also adding experience and versatility to the defensive backfield.
Dugger, a former second-round pick in the 2020 NFL Draft, brings a well-rounded résumé to Cincinnati. Over his career, he has recorded more than 480 tackles, 11 interceptions, and multiple defensive touchdowns, showcasing his ability to impact games in multiple ways. Known for his physicality and hybrid skill set, Dugger can play both in the box and in coverage, making him a flexible option for defensive coordinators. His background as a playmaker dates back to his time with the New England Patriots, where he developed into a key contributor before later stints with the Pittsburgh Steelers.
In 2025, Dugger split time between New England and Pittsburgh, finishing with 59 tackles and two interceptions, including a pick-six. That production highlights his ability to still contribute at a solid level, even as he enters his 30s. For the Bengals, this is not necessarily a blockbuster acquisition, but rather a strategic depth signing with upside.
The move also aligns with Cincinnati’s offseason approach. The team has already invested in the secondary, including adding other defensive backs, signaling a clear priority to improve pass defense. Dugger’s presence provides insurance, competition, and leadership in a relatively young unit.
Ultimately, this signing is about balance. The Bengals are not relying on Dugger to be a star, but instead to be a steady, reliable veteran who can elevate the floor of the defense. If he performs well, the deal could prove to be one of the more underrated pickups of the offseason.
#Bengals #Reds #TheStoneShieldsShow
2 days ago
2 days ago
On today's show we react to the Reds dropping the series against the Pirates where Emilio Pagan continued to struggle and the Reds bats remained cold. Also, the NFL thankfully is eliminating Monday Night Football doubleheaders and Bill Self will return to coach Kansas next season.
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Emilio Pagán was supposed to provide stability at the back end of the Cincinnati Reds bullpen to open 2026, but the early returns have been anything but steady. His outing against the Pittsburgh Pirates on Wednesday afternoon encapsulated the concerns: a ninth-inning unraveling that turned a competitive game into a lopsided loss.
Entering the frame with the Reds trailing by just one run, Pagán had an opportunity to keep the deficit manageable and give the offense a chance in the bottom half. Instead, the inning spiraled almost immediately. He allowed a leadoff single and then hit the next batter, putting himself in trouble before recording meaningful outs. A wild pitch compounded the issue, moving runners into scoring position and setting the stage for damage.
From there, the Pirates capitalized. A single brought in two runs, and shortly after, Bryan Reynolds delivered the decisive blow—a towering two-run homer that pushed the lead to 8-3 and effectively ended the game. What had been a tense, one-run contest quickly became a five-run gap, eliminating any realistic comeback chance.
This outing is part of a troubling pattern for Pagán to begin the season. He has already surrendered home runs in multiple appearances and has struggled to put together clean innings, even when not pitching in save situations. The inconsistency is particularly notable given his role and expectations after a strong 2025 campaign in which he converted 32 saves and solidified himself as the team’s closer.
The Reds are not yet at the point of making a change, but the warning signs are clear. Pagán’s command has wavered, his margin for error looks thin, and hitters are capitalizing on mistakes. If these ninth-inning struggles persist—especially outings like Wednesday’s four-run collapse—the Reds may be forced to reconsider their late-game hierarchy sooner rather than later.
#Reds #Bengals #TheStoneShieldsShow
3 days ago
3 days ago
On today's show, we discuss what Zac Taylor had to say about the Bengals defense at the NFL league meetings in Arizona. Also, Dan Hurley got extremely lucky at the end of UConn's Elite 8 matchup with Duke, Jon Scheyer and Tiger Woods stepping away after latest arrest.
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At the NFL league meetings in Arizona, Zac Taylor offered a clear look into the Cincinnati Bengals’ current offseason mindset—one centered on patience, internal development, and selective roster building.
One of the biggest takeaways from Taylor’s comments was his confidence in the team’s young linebackers. Despite outside concern about the position following a disappointing 2025 season, Taylor emphasized growth from players like Demetrius Knight Jr. and Barrett Carter. He pointed to examples of internal development within the roster, suggesting the Bengals believe improvement can come from within rather than relying solely on splashy free-agent additions.
That said, Taylor didn’t completely shut the door on adding help. He acknowledged that the team could still bring in a veteran linebacker or cornerback later in the offseason, something Cincinnati has done in the past with late signings. His comments reinforced the idea that the Bengals are comfortable waiting for the right opportunity rather than forcing moves early in free agency.
Taylor also spoke more broadly about roster construction and offseason priorities. The Bengals have focused on strengthening other areas of the defense—such as the secondary and pass rush—while keeping flexibility for the upcoming NFL Draft. With the 10th overall pick, Cincinnati is in a position to add an immediate-impact player, and Taylor’s presence at pro days and continued evaluation of defensive prospects signals that help could be coming through the draft.
Overall, Taylor’s tone was measured but optimistic. The Bengals aren’t panicking despite recent struggles—they’re betting on player development, smart drafting, and calculated additions to get back into playoff contention in 2026.
#Bengals #Reds #TheStoneShieldsShow
4 days ago
4 days ago
On today's show, we discuss Sal Stewart bringing home the NL Player of the Week award, Tony Santillan losing velocity on his fastball and the Reds third straight win after they take game 1 vs. Pittsburgh. Also, we break down Jay Morrison's Bengals LB targets in the NFL draft and discuss which basketball players Miami should / try to retain for next season.
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The Cincinnati Reds secured a 2–0 victory over the Pittsburgh Pirates tonight in a tightly played game defined by one decisive inning and strong pitching throughout.
All the offense came in the fourth inning, when Cincinnati capitalized on its best scoring opportunity of the night. Spencer Steer opened the scoring with a sacrifice fly, bringing home the game’s first run and breaking the early deadlock. Shortly after, Will Benson delivered the biggest hit of the night, ripping an RBI triple to extend the lead to 2–0. That brief surge proved to be all the Reds would need.
On the mound, Chase Burns turned in a strong performance over five innings. He controlled the pace of the game, limiting the Pirates’ offense and preventing any sustained threats. Burns attacked hitters with confidence, mixing his pitches effectively and keeping Pittsburgh from generating momentum during his time on the mound.
After Burns exited, the Reds’ bullpen took over and completed the shutout with four scoreless innings. The relievers were sharp and efficient, allowing little room for the Pirates to mount a comeback and preserving the two-run cushion without much drama.
Defensively, Cincinnati backed its pitching staff with a clean performance, avoiding errors and making the necessary plays to maintain control of the game.
For Pittsburgh, it was a frustrating night. Despite a solid effort from their own pitching staff, they couldn’t break through offensively. The inability to respond after the fourth inning ultimately sealed their fate.
In the end, the Reds combined timely hitting in one key frame with effective pitching from start to finish, executing a simple but effective formula to earn the 2–0 win.
#Reds #CincinnatiReds #RedsPirates
5 days ago
5 days ago
On today's show we discuss a pair of thrilling one run victories for the Cincinnati Reds over the weekend during their first series of the season. Also, the Final Four is set after Duke suffers another collapse in March. Plus, some thoughts on another Tiger Woods car accident.
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The Cincinnati Reds opened their season with a statement, taking the series against the Boston Red Sox by winning back-to-back games on Saturday and Sunday. After a tightly contested opener set the tone, the Reds showed resilience and balance across the weekend, capitalizing on timely hitting and steady pitching to secure the series victory.
Saturday’s win highlighted the Reds’ offensive depth. They strung together quality at-bats, working counts and putting pressure on Boston’s pitching staff. Key contributors delivered in clutch moments, turning what could have been a narrow contest into a confident win. The lineup showed an ability to manufacture runs without relying solely on power, an encouraging sign this early in the season.
On Sunday, the Reds leaned more heavily on their pitching staff, which rose to the occasion. The starting pitcher set the tone with efficient innings, limiting hard contact and keeping Boston’s hitters off balance. Out of the bullpen, relievers maintained the advantage, shutting down any hopes of a Red Sox comeback. Defensively, the Reds were sharp, making the routine plays and avoiding costly mistakes.
Taking two straight games against a team like Boston is no small feat, especially in the opening series when teams are still finding their rhythm. For Cincinnati, it signals a strong start and builds early momentum. It also reflects a team identity rooted in discipline, versatility, and composure under pressure.
While it’s still very early in the season, winning a series against a quality opponent can set the tone for the weeks ahead. The Reds will look to carry this confidence forward, knowing that their formula—solid pitching, timely hitting, and clean defense—can translate into continued success.
#Reds #CincinnatiReds #RedsRumors
Friday Mar 27, 2026
Friday Mar 27, 2026
On today's show, we discuss the Reds' 3-0 Opening Day loss to the Red Sox on a day that featured Andrew Abbott returning to form and Sal Stewart being the only source of Reds offense. Also, we discuss tonight's Sweet 16 matchups and break down a couple of potential Bengals free agent options who remain unsigned.
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The Cincinnati Reds opened their 2026 season with a frustrating 3–0 loss to the Boston Red Sox, a game defined almost entirely by dominant pitching and missed offensive opportunities. While the scoreline suggests a comfortable Boston win, the reality was a tightly contested duel that remained scoreless deep into the game before slipping away late.
Reds starter Andrew Abbott delivered an encouraging Opening Day performance, matching Boston ace Garrett Crochet inning for inning. Abbott threw six shutout innings, allowing scattered hits while keeping the Red Sox off the board and giving Cincinnati every chance to win. However, Crochet was even more overpowering. The left-hander struck out eight and allowed just three hits across six scoreless innings, repeatedly shutting down Reds hitters in key situations.
Cincinnati’s best chance came in the sixth inning, when they loaded the bases with one out. Crochet escaped by striking out Eugenio Suárez and Spencer Steer, a pivotal moment that preserved the scoreless tie and shifted momentum. From there, the Reds’ offense never recovered.
The breakthrough finally came in the seventh inning when Boston capitalized on a pitching change. A leadoff double eventually led to Ceddanne Rafaela’s RBI single, giving the Red Sox a 1–0 lead. Cincinnati’s bullpen held briefly, but the game slipped out of reach in the ninth inning as Boston added two insurance runs on RBI singles from Trevor Story and Jarren Duran.
Offensively, the Reds struggled to generate consistent pressure, finishing with just four hits and failing to score despite limited opportunities. One bright spot was rookie Sal Stewart, who recorded three hits in an impressive major league debut.
Ultimately, the loss highlighted a familiar issue for Cincinnati: solid pitching wasted by a quiet offense. While there were positives—especially Abbott’s outing and Stewart’s emergence—the shutout defeat underscored the need for more timely hitting as the season begins.
Music from #InAudio: https://inaudio.org/Track Name Holy (Trap).
Music from #InAudio: https://inaudio.org/Track Name Exercise (Rock).
#Bengals #Reds #TheStoneShieldsShow
Friday Mar 27, 2026
Friday Mar 27, 2026
Today's show is a special 2-hour edition of The Stone Shields show as we set the table for Cincinnati Reds Opening Day, the 2026 Cincinnati Reds season and Opening Day around Major League Baseball. Stone is joined by Reid Maus and Casey McCollister.
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The Cincinnati Reds enter the 2026 season with a renewed sense of urgency and optimism as they look to take the next step from a rebuilding club to a legitimate contender in the National League. After showing flashes of promise over the past couple of seasons, the Reds now find themselves at a pivotal moment where development must turn into production, and potential must translate into wins.
At the core of the Reds’ outlook is a young, dynamic lineup that continues to mature. Players like Elly De La Cruz remain the centerpiece of the offense, bringing elite athleticism, power, and game-changing speed. His ability to impact the game in multiple ways makes him one of the most exciting players in all of baseball, but consistency will be key in 2026. Alongside him, Matt McLain provides stability and a well-rounded skill set, contributing both offensively and defensively. If McLain can stay healthy, he gives the Reds a reliable presence near the top of the lineup.
Spencer Steer and Christian Encarnacion-Strand add further depth to the middle of the order, offering power and run production potential. The Reds will need both players to take another step forward, especially against high-end pitching. Meanwhile, the catching position, led by Tyler Stephenson, remains an important piece not only for offensive contributions but also for managing a young pitching staff.
One of the biggest storylines for the Reds heading into 2026 is their pitching staff. Hunter Greene continues to headline the rotation with electric stuff and ace-level potential. If he can stay healthy and refine his command, Greene has the tools to be one of the top pitchers in the league. Nick Lodolo’s development is just as critical; when healthy, he has shown the ability to dominate with his unique delivery and pitch mix. However, durability remains a major question mark.
Behind them, the Reds’ rotation will likely be a mix of young arms and emerging contributors, making depth a key factor over the course of a long season. Consistency from the back end of the rotation could ultimately determine whether this team can sustain a playoff push. The bullpen, meanwhile, has the potential to be a strength, especially if key arms can lock down late-game situations and limit blown leads.
Defensively, the Reds have the athleticism to be an above-average team. With versatile players capable of moving around the field, they can match up well against different opponents. However, cleaning up errors and maintaining focus in key moments will be an emphasis, as those small details often make the difference in close games.
Another important factor for the 2026 Reds is leadership and experience. As the roster continues to skew young, having steady veteran presences in the clubhouse can help guide the team through the ups and downs of a 162-game season. Whether through returning players or offseason additions, that leadership will play a role in keeping the team grounded during high-pressure stretches.
The National League Central remains a competitive but winnable division, which gives the Reds a clear path to contention if they can put everything together. Avoiding prolonged slumps, staying healthy, and performing well in divisional matchups will be crucial. The margin for error is slim, but the opportunity is there.
Ultimately, the 2026 season will be defined by whether the Reds can turn their potential into consistency. The talent is evident across the roster, and the excitement surrounding the team is real. Now, it comes down to execution. If their young stars continue to develop, the pitching staff takes a step forward, and the team finds consistency, the Cincinnati Reds have a legitimate chance to not only compete for a playoff spot but to reestablish themselves as a force in the National League.
Music from #InAudio: https://inaudio.org/Track Name Holy (Trap).
Music from #InAudio: https://inaudio.org/Track Name Exercise (Rock).
#CincinnatiReds #Reds #OpeningDay
Wednesday Mar 25, 2026
Wednesday Mar 25, 2026
On today's show we react to the Bengals bringing back Joe Flacco + North Carolina fires Hubert Davis, who are the top candidates to replace him? Also, Cincinnati Reds 2026 season preview on Opening Day Eve.
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The Cincinnati Bengals’ decision to re-sign Joe Flacco to a one-year deal for the 2026 season is a practical move built on experience, reliability, and roster stability. At 41 years old, Flacco is no longer a long-term solution, but his 2025 performance proved he can still contribute meaningful snaps when needed. After being acquired midseason, he appeared in nine games and started six, stepping in for an injured Joe Burrow and stabilizing the offense during a turbulent stretch.
Flacco’s production was efficient and steady. He threw for 1,664 yards, 13 touchdowns, and just four interceptions, showing he could still manage games and push the ball downfield when necessary. His veteran presence helped keep the Bengals competitive, even if the team’s overall record during his starts did not reflect his individual play. More importantly, he demonstrated command of the offense and quickly built chemistry with key playmakers.
For Cincinnati, this re-signing is less about upside and more about security. Burrow remains the franchise quarterback, but injuries in recent seasons have exposed the team’s lack of dependable depth. Rather than gamble on an inexperienced backup, the Bengals chose continuity with a proven veteran who already understands the system and locker room.
Financially, the deal is low-risk, reportedly worth around $6 million with incentives. That price aligns with Flacco’s role as a high-end backup who can step in without drastically changing the offense.
Ultimately, bringing Flacco back is a smart insurance policy. The Bengals are built to contend when healthy, and keeping a capable, experienced quarterback behind Burrow ensures they remain competitive if adversity strikes again.
Music from #InAudio: https://inaudio.org/Track Name Holy (Trap).
Music from #InAudio: https://inaudio.org/Track Name Exercise (Rock).
#Bengals #Reds #TheStoneShieldsShow
Tuesday Mar 24, 2026
Tuesday Mar 24, 2026
On today's show, we discuss the Cincinnati Bearcats officially hiring Jerrod Calhoun as their next head men's basketball coach. Also, Kelsey Conway reports that the Bengals have let DJ Turner and Dax Hill know the team would like to give them contract extensions + Cincinnati Reds bold predictions from The Athletic.
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The Cincinnati Bearcats’ decision to hire Jerrod Calhoun marks a pivotal moment for a program searching for renewed relevance in the Big 12. After parting ways with Wes Miller following five consecutive seasons without an NCAA Tournament appearance, Cincinnati prioritized a coach with both proven success and deep ties to the university—and Calhoun checks both boxes.
Calhoun arrives from Utah State, where he quickly established himself as one of the rising names in college basketball. In just two seasons, he compiled an impressive 55–15 record, led the Aggies to back-to-back NCAA Tournament appearances, and even guided them to a tournament win in 2026. His teams were known for efficient offense and disciplined play, traits Cincinnati hopes will translate to success in a highly competitive conference.
Beyond his on-court résumé, Calhoun’s connection to Cincinnati makes this hire particularly meaningful. A graduate of the university, he previously served as a student assistant under legendary coach Bob Huggins and later worked with him at West Virginia. That background gives Calhoun a strong understanding of the program’s culture and expectations, something fans and administrators value as they attempt to restore the Bearcats’ identity.
Calhoun’s coaching journey also reflects steady program-building ability. He began at Fairmont State, where he found Division II success, then rebuilt Youngstown State into a Horizon League contender before elevating Utah State on the national stage. This track record suggests he is well-equipped to take on the challenge of revitalizing Cincinnati.
Ultimately, the hire signals ambition. With increased resources, including significant NIL backing, and a fresh voice leading the program, Cincinnati is aiming to reestablish itself as a consistent NCAA Tournament team. Calhoun’s blend of familiarity, momentum, and coaching acumen makes him a compelling choice to lead that resurgence.
Music from #InAudio: https://inaudio.org/Track Name Holy (Trap).
Music from #InAudio: https://inaudio.org/Track Name Exercise (Rock).
#Bengals #Reds #TheStoneShieldsShow
Monday Mar 23, 2026
Monday Mar 23, 2026
On today's show we discuss the Bengals letting Tycen Anderson walk in free agency as he has signed with the Denver Broncos. Also, Nick Lodolo suffered another blister injury during his final start of spring training and Wes Miller was hired as the next head coach at Charlotte.
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Nick Lodolo experienced a concerning setback during his final spring training appearance on March 22, 2026, when a recurring blister issue forced him out of the game almost immediately. The left-handed starter, who was expected to be a key part of the Cincinnati Reds rotation to begin the regular season, lasted only a handful of pitches before discomfort on his left index finger became too significant to ignore.
Lodolo’s outing against the Cleveland Guardians began shakily and ended abruptly. He walked the first batter he faced and then surrendered a two-run home run before trainers were called to the mound. After a brief discussion with coaching staff, Lodolo exited the game having faced just two hitters. Reports indicated the blister had already developed enough to require immediate attention, with team staff later draining it in the training room in an effort to prevent further complications.
While blisters might seem minor compared to other injuries, they are particularly problematic for pitchers, especially those like Lodolo who rely on grip and feel to command their pitches. This is not a new issue for him, either—he has dealt with similar blister problems multiple times in recent seasons, occasionally even requiring stints on the injured list. The recurrence raises concerns not only about his immediate availability but also about his long-term durability.
The timing of the setback is especially unfortunate. This appearance was meant to be Lodolo’s final tune-up before the regular season, where he had been projected to start one of the opening games. Instead, the Reds are now in a wait-and-see mode, evaluating how quickly the blister heals and whether he will be ready to take the mound as scheduled.
Fortunately for Cincinnati, the team has built some rotation depth heading into the season, which could help absorb any short-term absence. Still, Lodolo’s health remains a critical factor. When healthy, he has shown flashes of top-of-the-rotation potential, making his condition something the organization—and its fans—will be monitoring closely in the days leading up to Opening Day.
Music from #InAudio: https://inaudio.org/Track Name Holy (Trap).
Music from #InAudio: https://inaudio.org/Track Name Exercise (Rock).
#Bengals #Reds #TheStoneShieldsShow