The Stone Shields Show | Daily Sports Talk

Bengals Making Major Changes To Offensive Scheme? Reds Season Teetering + NBA Draft Round 1 Reaction

On today's show, we discuss the Bengals potentially undergoing some scheme changes offensively and increasing their under-center snaps. Plus, the Reds' season is teetering after back-to-back losses to the Brewers and reaction to Round 1 of the NBA Draft.
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The Cincinnati Reds’ offensive struggles continued Tuesday night as they dropped a 2-0 decision to the Milwaukee Brewers at Great American Ball Park, managing just two hits for the second consecutive game. The loss spoiled what had been shaping up as one of Nick Lodolo’s sharpest outings of the season before an unfortunate injury scare changed the complexion of the game.
Lodolo was dominant early, holding Milwaukee hitless through the first three innings while striking out six batters. The turning point came in the fourth inning when Brewers outfielder Jackson Chourio drilled a 107.6 mph comebacker that struck Lodolo on his pitching arm and wrist area. Trainers and manager Terry Francona quickly checked on the left-hander, who remained in the game despite obvious discomfort. He battled through the inning, escaping a bases-loaded jam and keeping the Brewers off the scoreboard.
However, Lodolo’s night ended after four scoreless innings. He was diagnosed with a left wrist contusion, though postgame X-rays came back negative. The Reds were encouraged by the initial results, and Lodolo expressed optimism that he would be able to make his next scheduled start.
Once Lodolo exited, Cincinnati’s bullpen kept the game close but couldn’t completely shut down Milwaukee. Rookie Julian Garcia, making his major league debut, allowed the game’s first run in the sixth inning when Jake Bauers delivered an RBI triple. The Brewers added an insurance run in the eighth on Andrew Vaughn’s sacrifice fly.
The Reds never mounted much of an offensive threat against Brewers starter Brandon Sproat and Milwaukee’s bullpen. Sproat carried a no-hit bid into the sixth inning, finishing with 10 strikeouts over six dominant innings. Cincinnati’s only hits came from Jose Trevino and Nathaniel Lowe as the club was shut out for the second straight night.
For the Reds, the biggest concern after another frustrating defeat was Lodolo’s health. Given how well he was pitching before the comebacker, avoiding a serious injury may prove more important than the final score.
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Now Or Never For The Bengals In 2026? Giannis Traded To Heat, Dusty May To Mavericks, Wyndham Clark Wins US Open

On today's show, we discuss the Reds getting outdueled by the Brewers in a 2-1 extra innings loss. Plus, is 2026 now or never for the Bengals? Giannis Antetokounmpo traded overnight to the Miami Heat, Dusty May leaving Michigan for the Mavericks and reaction to Wyndham Clark winning the US Open.
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The Cincinnati Reds came up short in a 2-1 extra-inning loss to the Milwaukee Brewers on Monday night, but the game may ultimately be remembered for the performance of right-hander Brady Singer. In a season that has featured inconsistency and frustration, Singer delivered what was arguably his finest outing of 2026, matching returning Brewers ace Brandon Woodruff pitch for pitch in a classic pitchers’ duel.
Singer worked seven scoreless innings, allowing only a handful of baserunners while striking out seven. He attacked the strike zone with confidence, mixed his pitches effectively, and consistently got ahead in counts. Most importantly, he kept a dangerous Brewers lineup off balance all night. By the time he exited after 106 pitches, the game remained scoreless and the crowd at Great American Ball Park had witnessed the best version of the Reds starter.
What made the outing especially encouraging was the context. Singer entered the game looking to build on a strong June after a difficult May in which his ERA ballooned and home runs became a major issue. Against Milwaukee, there were no costly mistakes. His sinker had life, his slider generated swings and misses, and he showed the ability to finish hitters when he got ahead.
Unfortunately for the Reds, the offense could not provide any support. Woodruff, making his return from the injured list, was equally dominant, throwing six shutout innings with 10 strikeouts. The game stayed scoreless until the Brewers manufactured two runs in the 10th inning, with a sacrifice fly from Joey Ortiz proving to be the difference. Cincinnati scored once in the bottom half but could not complete the comeback.
The loss was disappointing, but Singer’s performance offered a silver lining. If he continues to pitch the way he did Monday night, the Reds may still have a dependable front-line starter to lean on during the season’s second half.
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Cincinnati Reds Upset Yankees, Bengals Free Agency Rumors On Signing Bobby Okereke, Dusty May Leaving Michigan For Mavericks

On today's show, we break down an impressive weekend of baseball for the Reds as they took 2 of 3 in the Bronx against the Yankees. Plus, Bengals free agency rumors on Bobby Okereke, and is Bralyn Lux competing for a starting spot? Also, NBA draft preview & Dusty May leaving Michigan for the Dallas Mavericks.
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The Cincinnati Reds made a statement over the weekend in the Bronx, taking two of three from the New York Yankees and continuing to show they can compete with baseball’s elite. After dropping the series opener 5-0 on Friday, Cincinnati responded with back-to-back victories to secure an impressive road series win at Yankee Stadium.
Friday belonged to the Yankees, as rookie pitcher Cam Schlittler dominated the Reds lineup with 13 strikeouts over six scoreless innings. Cincinnati managed little offensively and never recovered from an early power surge by New York.
What followed, however, highlighted the resilience that has defined the Reds throughout much of the season. Cincinnati bounced back on Saturday and carried that momentum into Sunday’s finale behind another outstanding performance from rookie sensation Chase Burns. Burns worked five strong innings, striking out seven while allowing just one run. The victory was his eighth consecutive win, a remarkable achievement that further strengthens his growing case as one of the National League’s breakout stars.
Offensively, the Reds delivered timely hits when they mattered most. Tyler Stephenson provided the biggest blow of the finale with a three-run homer in the fourth inning, turning a close game into one Cincinnati controlled for the remainder of the afternoon. Noelvi Marte added insurance with an RBI double late, while the bullpen combined to shut down any hopes of a Yankees comeback.
Perhaps most impressive was the way Cincinnati won despite being short-handed. The Reds have continued to grind out victories while awaiting the return of key contributors, and taking a series from the Yankees on the road demonstrates the club’s depth and confidence. By outscoring New York 14-3 over the final two games, Cincinnati left no doubt about who was the better team this weekend.
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Bengals Hidden Gems & Offseason Themes, Hunter Greene Makes Rehab Start, Year 1 With Jerrod Calhoun

On today's show, we discuss some Bengals offseason themes, including new leadership and Al Golden's newfound versatility. Plus, some Bengals hidden gems that were selected on day 3 of the NFL draft, Hunter Greene makes his first rehab start and going into year 1 with Jerrod Calhoun at UC.
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Right-hander Hunter Greene took an important step in his return to the mound Thursday night, making his first rehabilitation appearance for the Arizona Complex League Reds after missing the entire 2026 season while recovering from March elbow surgery to remove bone spurs and loose bodies from his right elbow. The assignment marked Greene’s first game action in more than three months and represented a significant milestone in the recovery process for the Reds’ ace.
Greene’s outing came against the ACL Cubs at Sloan Park in Arizona. Before the game, reports indicated that the Reds planned to limit him to roughly three innings as they began the process of building his workload back toward major-league starter levels. The organization has been cautiously progressing Greene through bullpen sessions, live batting practice, and simulated game work before finally clearing him for competitive action.
The early returns were encouraging. Greene reportedly worked scoreless baseball in his rehab debut, flashing the power arsenal that has made him one of baseball’s most electric pitchers. Reports from the game noted that he struck out multiple hitters and showed strong command while facing rookie-level competition. His ability to miss bats immediately is a positive sign, particularly after such a lengthy layoff following elbow surgery.
For Cincinnati, the rehab start carries significance beyond the box score. Greene entered the season as the unquestioned leader of the rotation after establishing himself as an All-Star-caliber starter. The Reds have expressed optimism that he could return before the All-Star break if his rehab progresses without setbacks, making each appearance an important checkpoint in his recovery timeline.
While one rookie-level outing does not guarantee a smooth return, Greene’s successful debut with the ACL affiliate provided exactly what the Reds hoped to see: health, velocity, strikeouts, and another step toward rejoining Cincinnati’s rotation for the second half of the 2026 season.
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Is The Old Joe Burrow Back? Bengals Minicamp Winners & Losers Ft. Charlie Jones, Bralyn Lux & Al Golden

On today's show, we break down some Bengals mandatory minicamp winners and losers after Zac Taylor made the decision to cancel days 2 and 3 of minicamp. Plus, takeaways from Joe Burrow's press conference: Is the old Joe back? Also, the Reds get routed by the Mets in finale after a barrage of singles.
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At his minicamp press conference on June 17, Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow made headlines by comparing the 2026 Bengals to the legendary 2019 LSU team that won the national championship and is widely regarded as one of the greatest college football teams ever. Burrow said he feels “very similarly” about this Bengals roster to how he felt before LSU’s historic 15-0 season, a comparison he noted by referencing his own comments and confidence level entering that year.
Burrow’s remarks reflected a level of optimism and conviction that he has not publicly expressed about previous Bengals teams. He told reporters that he wants “everybody talking about the Bengals” and emphasized how excited he is to get to training camp because he believes the team has the potential to achieve something special this season.
The comparison is significant because the 2019 LSU squad featured elite talent throughout the roster, including future NFL stars such as Ja'Marr Chase and Justin Jefferson. That team went undefeated, won the national championship, and helped Burrow capture the Heisman Trophy after throwing for 5,671 yards and 60 touchdowns.
Burrow indicated that the feeling comes from the talent level, chemistry, and focus he sees in the current Bengals locker room. He pointed to the organization’s aggressive offseason moves, including adding defensive standouts such as Dexter Lawrence II, Boye Mafe, Bryan Cook, and Kyle Dugger. He has also previously described this roster as the most talented Bengals team he has been around since arriving in Cincinnati.
Another theme from the press conference was urgency. Burrow said he has tried to become a more vocal leader this offseason, pushing teammates to understand the level of play required if the Bengals are going to contend for a championship.
In short, Burrow’s message was clear: he believes the 2026 Bengals have the talent, mindset, and potential to make a championship run, and he sees echoes of the dominant 2019 LSU team that set the standard for his football career.
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Bengals Mandatory Minicamp Day 1 Ft. Joe Burrow, Charlie Jones & Mike Gesicki, US Open + Who Should Take Brendan Sorsby?

On today's show, we discuss some takeaways from Bengals mandatory minicamp day 1 and also react to the breaking news of Zac Taylor cancelling days 2 and 3 of minicamp. Plus, the Reds take the series vs. the Mets thanks to Sal Stewart, US Open conversation and one surprise team that should be interested in Brendan Sorsby.
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The Cincinnati Bengals opened their three-day mandatory minicamp Tuesday at Paycor Stadium, marking the final on-field work before players break for summer and reconvene for training camp in late July. After missing the playoffs for three straight seasons, the atmosphere around Day 1 carried a sense of urgency and optimism as coaches and players focused on building momentum for the 2026 season.
Quarterback Joe Burrow was the center of attention throughout practice. He delivered several highlight-reel throws, including deep connections with tight end Mike Gesicki and a no-look pass during team drills. Burrow also stayed after practice for extra throwing sessions with receivers, a sign of the leadership and attention to detail that teammates have praised throughout the offseason.
One of the biggest defensive highlights came from cornerback Josh Newton, who intercepted Burrow early in seven-on-seven work. Newton’s play immediately sparked discussion about his potential role in the secondary and underscored the competition taking place throughout the defensive backfield.
The minicamp also serves as an opportunity for the Bengals to evaluate a roster that has undergone notable changes this offseason. New additions on defense, including defensive tackle Dexter Lawrence and several veteran free agents, are expected to help improve a unit that struggled at times last year. Coaches are also closely monitoring position battles at linebacker, cornerback, and along the defensive line.
With two more minicamp practices remaining, Cincinnati’s focus is on sharpening execution, developing chemistry, and establishing the foundation for a season in which expectations are once again centered on returning to playoff contention.
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Bengals Ownership Speaks, Reds Drop 12 On Mets, US Open Preview, Brendan Sorsby Declares For Supplemental NFL Draft

On today's show, we discuss what Bengals Executive Vice President Katie Blackburn and Vice President Elizabeth Blackburn had to say about the future of Zac Taylor, Duke Tobin, and Joe Burrow, as well as plans to try to bring the NFL Draft to Cincinnati. Also, Eugenio Suarez plays long ball twice in the Reds' rout of the Mets, US Open preview and Brendan Sorsby plans to apply for the NFL supplemental draft.
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Cincinnati Bengals ownership met with local media Monday and delivered a message centered on optimism, accountability and the organization’s aggressive approach to the 2026 season. Executive Vice President Katie Blackburn and Vice President Elizabeth Blackburn addressed a wide range of topics, including roster construction, the future of the coaching staff, stadium and league matters, and the club’s expectations entering training camp.
The most notable comments came regarding head coach Zac Taylor and personnel chief Duke Tobin. Despite three consecutive seasons without a playoff appearance, Blackburn said the organization believes both leaders deserve another opportunity to prove they can guide the Bengals back into contention. She emphasized that ownership expects a successful season and made it clear that everyone in the building understands the importance of returning to the postseason.
Ownership also discussed several major offseason moves that have generated excitement around the franchise. The Blackburns explained the recent restructuring of quarterback Joe Burrow’s contract, noting that flexibility had been built into the agreement and that the move helped create additional salary-cap room after an expensive offseason focused on improving the roster.
Another significant development was the announcement that Elizabeth Blackburn has been promoted to vice president. The move further expands her role in the family-run organization and reflects an evolving front-office structure that has become more aggressive in roster building and team operations.
Overall, Bengals ownership projected confidence in the team’s direction. After investing heavily in the roster and making substantial changes on the defensive side of the ball, the expectation is no longer simply to compete. The Bengals believe they have assembled a team capable of returning to the playoffs and making a meaningful postseason run in 2026.
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Bengals Mandatory Minicamp Roster Battles, Reds Drop 5th Straight Series, Knicks Win Title, Gaethje Defeats Topuria At White House

On today's show, we discuss some roster battles going into the Bengals' mandatory minicamp. Also, the Reds lose their 5th straight series, the Knicks win the NBA title, and Justin Gaethje shocks Ilia Topuria at the White House.
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The Cincinnati Bengals begin their mandatory minicamp tomorrow, marking the final phase of the offseason program before players break for the summer and return for training camp in late July. The three-day minicamp, scheduled for June 16-18, is the last opportunity for coaches to evaluate the roster in a full-team setting before preparations for the 2026 season intensify. Unlike Organized Team Activities (OTAs), attendance at minicamp is required for all players under contract.
One of the biggest storylines entering minicamp is the continued development of a defense that underwent significant changes during the offseason. Cincinnati added several experienced contributors and will use these practices to determine how new pieces fit into coordinator Al Golden’s system. The linebacker position remains an area of focus, while coaches will also evaluate how younger players progress against veteran competition.
On offense, attention will naturally center on quarterback Joe Burrow and a unit expected to be among the league’s best. Minicamp offers valuable reps for establishing timing and chemistry before the long break between offseason workouts and training camp. Wide receiver Ja'Marr Chase has already participated in recent OTA sessions, and the Bengals will look to continue building continuity throughout the offense.
The coaching staff will also be monitoring position battles and contract situations. Defensive backs entering contract years and younger players competing for larger roles could use a strong minicamp to improve their standing heading into training camp. Additionally, the Bengals are expected to continue experimenting with how they deploy defensive linemen and other versatile defenders.
While no live contact is permitted, minicamp practices feature 7-on-7, 9-on-7, and 11-on-11 drills, giving coaches their clearest picture yet of the roster. By Thursday’s conclusion, Cincinnati should have a much better sense of its strengths, depth chart competitions, and priorities heading into training camp and the 2026 season.
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Bengals Remaining Free Agent Options, Sean Payton Extension, Phil Mickelson Controversy, Zac Taylor On Rich Eisen

On today's show, we discuss some remaining Bengals free agent targets ft. Bobby Wagner & Joey Bosa. Plus, Sean Payton signs extension with the Broncos, Phil Mickelson gets kicked out of his home country club and Zac Taylor appears on The Rich Eisen Show.
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As the Bengals move toward the middle of June, two veteran free agents continue to make sense as potential additions: Bobby Wagner and Joey Bosa.
Wagner is arguably the cleaner fit. Cincinnati's linebacker room remains one of the biggest question marks on the roster, especially after several offseason changes. Even at 36 years old, Wagner remains productive against the run and brings elite football intelligence, leadership, and communication skills. Recent analysis of the Bengals' roster has highlighted linebacker as an unfinished position group and specifically identified Wagner as a veteran who could immediately stabilize the defense.
The biggest concern with Wagner is coverage ability. He is no longer the sideline-to-sideline defender he was during his prime with the Seahawks, and opposing offenses would likely target him in passing situations. Still, for a Bengals defense looking to improve consistency and leadership, Wagner could be a valuable short-term answer while younger linebackers continue developing. The recent restructuring of Joe Burrow's contract reportedly created additional cap flexibility, making a move more feasible than it was earlier this offseason.
Bosa presents a different type of gamble. The former Ohio State star has long been connected to Cincinnati because of his relationship with Burrow and the Bengals' desire to improve their pass rush. Several Bengals-focused outlets have continued to mention Bosa as a logical target throughout the offseason.
The upside is obvious. When healthy, Bosa can still affect games as a pass rusher and would give defensive coordinator Al Golden another experienced edge presence. The concern, however, is durability. Injuries have become a recurring theme in Bosa's career, making it difficult to project him as a full-season contributor.
If Cincinnati signs only one of the two, Wagner feels like the more realistic and immediate need. But if the Bengals believe they are one pass rusher away from making a deep playoff run, Bosa remains the higher-upside swing as training camp approaches.
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Cincinnati Benagls Game Predictions, Reds Walked-Off, Knicks Storm Back To Take Game 4

On today's show, we go through each Bengals regular season game with predictions. Plus, the Reds' bullpen melts down again in a walk-off loss to the Padres & the Knicks make NBA history with a come-from-behind win against the Spurs in Game 4 of the NBA Finals.
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The Cincinnati Reds had this one in their hands. Then, in a matter of innings, it slipped away.
Wednesday’s 5-4 loss to the San Diego Padres was another painful example of a problem that has haunted Cincinnati throughout much of the season: an inability to finish games. The Reds carried a 4-2 lead into the bottom of the eighth after solo home runs from JJ Bleday and Eugenio Suárez helped build what looked like a comfortable advantage. Starter Brady Singer had done his job, allowing just two runs over six innings and putting the bullpen in position to secure the win.
Instead, the bullpen faltered once again.
San Diego chipped away in the eighth, getting RBI hits from Gavin Sheets and Samad Taylor to erase Cincinnati’s lead and tie the game at 4-4. What had been a promising afternoon suddenly became another tense finish for a Reds team that has struggled to lock down late leads.
The decisive blow came in the ninth. With two outs and nobody on, recently recalled right-hander Chase Petty appeared one pitch away from sending the game to extra innings. Instead, he left a breaking ball over the plate, and Fernando Tatis Jr. crushed it just over the left-field wall for a walk-off home run. Petco Park erupted as the Padres completed their comeback and secured the series victory.
For the Reds, the loss was especially frustrating because the offense did enough to win. Cincinnati collected 10 hits, hit three home runs, and received quality pitching from Singer. Yet they managed just one hit in six opportunities with runners in scoring position, leaving the door open for San Diego’s rally.
The result dropped Cincinnati to 32-35 and continued a rough stretch in which late-game execution has repeatedly undermined otherwise solid performances. When a team gets three homers and a quality start, it expects to win. The Reds got neither the win nor the series, thanks to one swing from Tatis that turned a likely victory into another gut-punch defeat.
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