The Stone Shields Show | Daily Sports Talk
The Stone Shields Show is a daily sports podcast covering the biggest stories from across the sports world.
Hosted by Stone Shields, the show delivers reactions, analysis, and opinions on the latest headlines in the NFL, MLB, NBA, college football, college basketball, and more. While rooted in Cincinnati sports, the show also explores the national stories, debates, and moments shaping the sports landscape every day.
New episodes released Monday through Friday.
Episodes

Wednesday May 06, 2026
Wednesday May 06, 2026
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

Tuesday May 05, 2026
Tuesday May 05, 2026
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

Monday May 04, 2026
Monday May 04, 2026
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

Friday May 01, 2026
Friday May 01, 2026
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

Thursday Apr 30, 2026
Thursday Apr 30, 2026
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

Wednesday Apr 29, 2026
Wednesday Apr 29, 2026
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

Tuesday Apr 28, 2026
Tuesday Apr 28, 2026
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

Monday Apr 27, 2026
Monday Apr 27, 2026
On today's show, we break down all 7 selections the Cincinnati Bengals made in the 2026 NFL Draft: Cashius Howell, Tacario Davis, Connor Lew, Colbie Young, Brian Parker II, Jack Endries and Landon Robinson.
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 Bengals approached the 2026 NFL Draft with an unconventional strategy, opting to trade away their first-round pick (No. 10 overall) to acquire standout defensive tackle Dexter Lawrence, effectively bringing in a proven veteran instead of a rookie. Without a Round 1 selection, Cincinnati focused on addressing key needs with its Day 2 picks. In the second round, they selected defensive end Cashius Howell, a productive pass rusher coming off an 11.5-sack season, signaling an emphasis on improving the pass rush. In the third round, they added cornerback Tacario Davis, a tall and physical defender who brings length and upside to the secondary.
On Day 3, the Bengals were active in maneuvering their draft capital, including a trade with the New York Jets to move into the fourth round, where they selected center Connor Lew and wide receiver Colbie Young. Lew, a former top prospect, offers long-term potential along the interior offensive line despite recovering from an ACL injury, while Young provides size and red-zone ability at receiver, albeit with some risk factors. In the sixth round, Cincinnati added another center, Brian Parker II, reinforcing depth and competition at the position. The Bengals closed out their draft in the seventh round by selecting tight end Jack Endries and defensive tackle Landon Robinson, both developmental prospects with intriguing upside.
Overall, the Bengals’ 2026 draft class emphasized building depth rather than securing top-end rookie talent. By trading for Lawrence, they prioritized immediate impact on the defensive line, while their draft selections focused on reinforcing the trenches, adding secondary help, and taking calculated risks on high-upside players later in the draft.
Music from #InAudio: https://inaudio.org/Track Name Holy (Trap).
Music from #InAudio: https://inaudio.org/Track Name Exercise (Rock).
#Bengals #Reds #TheStoneShieldsShow

Thursday Apr 23, 2026
Thursday Apr 23, 2026
On today's show, we discuss whether there is a chance Cincinnati could trade back into Round 1 of the 2026 NFL Draft and a couple of players they may do that for. Also, is Sonny Styles a lock top 5 pick? Could Carnell Tate slide? Plus, Brandon Williamson questions after Reds loss to Rays.
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 idea of the Cincinnati Bengals trading back into Round 1 of the 2026 NFL Draft isn’t just fan fiction—it’s a legitimately plausible scenario, but one that hinges on how aggressive the front office wants to be after already reshaping its draft capital.
First, the context matters. Cincinnati no longer holds a first-round pick after sending No. 10 overall to the New York Giants in exchange for defensive tackle Dexter Lawrence II. That move signals a “win-now” mindset: they’ve already acquired a proven star rather than waiting on a rookie. As a result, their current draft capital starts at pick No. 41 in Round 2.
That’s where the possibility of a trade back into Round 1 comes in. Teams picking late in the first round often look to move down for more selections, and Cincinnati has the kind of mid-round ammo (plus future picks) to make a deal work. League insiders have even suggested the Bengals “could be more aggressive moving around the board this weekend,” especially after the Lawrence trade set the tone.
There’s also precedent in this specific draft environment. Reports indicate this year’s first round could be unusually trade-heavy due to a flatter talent pool—meaning the gap between late first- and early second-round prospects isn’t huge. That dynamic makes it easier for a team like Cincinnati to justify packaging picks (for example, No. 41 plus additional assets) to jump into the 20s.
However, there are real obstacles. Historically, Cincinnati has been conservative with first-round trades, rarely moving up aggressively. More importantly, they already spent premium capital on Lawrence, so doubling down with another costly move could thin out depth—something this roster still needs, particularly on defense and the offensive line.
So the bottom line: it’s possible, even logical under the right circumstances—but not guaranteed. If a specific high-impact defender or offensive lineman slides into the 20–32 range, the Bengals could strike. Otherwise, the smarter play may be staying put and maximizing value on Day 2.
Music from #InAudio: https://inaudio.org/Track Name Holy (Trap).
Music from #InAudio: https://inaudio.org/Track Name Exercise (Rock).
#Bengals #Reds #TheStoneShieldsShow

Wednesday Apr 22, 2026
Wednesday Apr 22, 2026
On today's show, Stone runs through his final Cincinnati Bengals mock draft before they make a critical selection at #41 overall. Plus, the Reds win their 5th straight after a 12-6 win last night over the Rays. Plus, LeBron James and the Lakers take a 2-0 series lead against the Rockets against all odds.
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 hot streak in emphatic fashion last night, defeating the Tampa Bay Rays 12–6 to secure their fifth consecutive win. The victory showcased a balanced offensive explosion and timely pitching, reinforcing the Reds’ growing momentum as they push deeper into the season.
Cincinnati’s lineup came alive early, putting immediate pressure on Tampa Bay’s pitching staff. A multi-run first inning set the tone, with aggressive baserunning and disciplined at-bats forcing mistakes. The Reds consistently found gaps in the defense, stringing together hits rather than relying solely on power. By the middle innings, they had already built a commanding lead that proved difficult for the Rays to overcome.
Several Reds hitters delivered standout performances, combining for a double-digit hit total and driving in runs across multiple innings. The team’s ability to capitalize with runners in scoring position was especially notable, a key factor in turning what could have been a close contest into a comfortable win. Even as the Rays attempted to claw back with a few late runs, Cincinnati responded quickly to maintain control.
On the mound, the Reds’ pitching staff delivered a solid, if not flawless, outing. The starter provided enough stability to build the lead, while the bullpen managed to contain Tampa Bay’s offense despite allowing a handful of runs. Importantly, they avoided the kind of big inning that could have shifted momentum.
With five straight wins, the Reds are showing signs of a team finding its rhythm. Confidence is building in both the clubhouse and on the field, and performances like this highlight their potential when all facets of the game click.
Music from #InAudio: https://inaudio.org/Track Name Holy (Trap).
Music from #InAudio: https://inaudio.org/Track Name Exercise (Rock).
#Bengals #Reds #TheStoneShieldsShow







