Keys For the Cincinnati Bengals to Beat the New York Giants on Sunday Night Football

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10 October 2024

Carsyn Crouch, Nati Sports

The Cincinnati Reds have undergone a major coaching overhaul after a disappointing 2024 season, parting ways with all three of their hitting coaches. This includes Joel McKeithan, who served as the lead hitting coach, alongside assistants Terry Bradshaw and Tim LaMonte. This change is a significant first step under the leadership of newly appointed manager Terry Francona.

The team’s offensive struggles this past season were evident, as they finished with a batting average of just .231, placing them near the bottom of the league. Their performance included 16 shutout losses and several frustrating one-run defeats, highlighting the need for a new approach to revitalizing their offensive capabilities.

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The Search for a New Voice

With the hitting coach position vacant, several names have surfaced as potential candidates. Among them is Kevin Youkilis, a two-time World Series champion and former All-Star. Youkilis, who spent much of his playing career as a key contributor for the Boston Red Sox, is known for his gritty, patient approach at the plate, earning him the nickname “The Greek God of Walks.” He has since been involved in various coaching and advisory roles and could bring a fresh perspective to the Reds, focusing on discipline and on-base percentage—two areas the Reds struggled with this past season. It’s worth nothing, Youk hinted at not being interested in a hitting coach position citing it “thankless” – he’s right.

Another name drawing attention is Donnie Ecker, a former Reds assistant hitting coach who has earned praise for his work with the San Francisco Giants. Ecker has built a reputation as a forward-thinking coach, combining traditional hitting philosophies with modern analytics. His familiarity with the Reds’ organization, as well as his success in San Francisco, makes him an attractive option. Ecker’s ability to implement cutting-edge hitting strategies could be what the Reds need to push their offense to the next level.

Johnny Washington and a Youthful Energy

Johnny Washington, a former hitting coach for the San Diego Padres, has also been mentioned in coaching circles. Known for his ability to connect with younger players and develop raw talent, Washington could be a great fit for a Reds team loaded with promising prospects. Washington has shown an ability to help young players transition to the majors, something that will be key for the Reds as they continue to develop players like Elly De La Cruz and Matt McLain. His emphasis on making in-game adjustments and fostering a positive culture in the clubhouse could create a productive environment in Cincinnati.

Joey Votto, the longtime face of the franchise, remains a pivotal figure in the Reds’ clubhouse, and while his playing future is now known, he’s retired, his influence remains strong. Some have speculated whether Votto could transition into a coaching or advisory role. As one of the most disciplined hitters of his generation, Votto has often acted as a de facto mentor to younger players. His elite understanding of hitting mechanics, as well as his tireless work ethic, could make him a valuable asset to the coaching staff if he chooses to move in that direction. It was known that Krall approached Votto with a potential bench role last season once he went unsigned as a FA.

Who would you like to see as the Cincinnati Reds hitting coach?

Lou Anarumo Is Running Out of Excuses And Running Out of Time.

By

chrisball96

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9 October 2024

The Bengals are wasting one of the best years of Joe Burrow’s career. He leads the NFL with 12 touchdown passes, is 6th in passing yards, 2nd in quarterback rating, and 2nd in completion percentage. Most importantly, his sack percentage is just 5.98% which is by far the best that figure has been since Burrow entered the league.

Tee Higgins and Ja’Marr Chase are healthy. Chase Brown appears poised to breakout as a very good Bengals running back. All of the offensive pieces are there for this team to make a run at winning their first Super Bowl.

And yet the Bengals are 1-4, tied for last in the division, and hanging on to the barest hope to even make the playoffs this season. The numbers are bleak. Going back to 1970, 253 teams have opened a season at 1-4. Only 15 of those (or just 5.9%) ended up making the postseason, with the last team being Washington in 2020.

Unless one has been living under a rock for the past 5 weeks of the season, the main reason for this disaster of a situation has become clear.

This season, Lou Anarumo’s defense is 31st in points allowed per game (29.0), 26th in yards allowed (365.4), 30th in rush yards allowed (151.4), and 19th in pass yards allowed (214.0). For all that the Bengals’ offense has improved, the defense has devolved. Since the Super Bowl year of 2021 when their defense was 18th overall, it fell to 31st last year and shows no signs of real improvement.

"The Bengals are sitting there probably going they're the best 1-4 team in football but they gotta start putting some wins up soon..

They obviously gotta play better defense and make the plays that you gotta make"

Bill Belichick #PMSLive pic.twitter.com/TQYw5LMZC7
— Pat McAfee (@PatMcAfeeShow) October 7, 2024

But how much of the blame falls on Anarumo? It is fair to point out that the front office let several key defensive players walk, including Jessie Bates and D.J. Reader. However, a closer look at the roster paints a much more complicated picture.

The Bengals’ Super Bowl defense had the same starting defensive ends (Hendrickson and Hubbard). They had the same linebackers (Logan Wilson and Germaine Pratt), and the same starting safety (Vonn Bell). In addition, this defense boasts not one, but two first-round picks in Dax Hill (though he is now injured) and Myles Murphy. The same core players that lead this defense to a potential championship in 2021 are still on this roster today.

And yet Anarumo’s players have failed to take measurable steps forward. “He doesn’t have the talent” simply should not be enough to shield the Bengals’ defensive coordinator from criticism this season. It is hard to imagine that so many talented Bengals would fall off so quickly in just two short years since losing to the Rams in the championship game. At the same time, it is clear that although Dax Hill and Myles Murphy have shown flashes, they are far from the dominant players one might expect from such high picks.

#Bengals weekly stats update: Offense good, defense bad, future schedule weak.

Offense
Points/drive: 2nd
Success%: 6th
EPA/play: 2nd
DVOA: 3rd
Explosive%: 16th
Red Zone%: t-5th
ANY/A: 2nd

Defense
Points/drive: 30th
Success%: 31st
EPA/play: 30th
DVOA: 23rd
Explosive%: 9th
Red…
— Paul Dehner Jr. (@pauldehnerjr) October 8, 2024

It’s not easy to determine who bears the brunt of the blame for the Bengals’ defensive woes. The front office has stood pat on players and been stubborn not to re-sign game-changing standouts on the defensive side of the ball. At the same time Anarumo hasn’t shown that he can get results with a defense that includes first-day draft picks and proven veteran players. But whomever it may be, the time for excuses is long past over. We’ve seen Cincinnati’s offense can continue to move the ball up and down the field like all-pros. Unfortunately, it simply will not be enough to have sustained success if the defense cannot stop an opponent from scoring at will and answering every Bengals touchdown with one of their own.

It is not all gloom and doom, though. There is hope ahead in that Cincinnati’s future schedule includes a bevy of games against struggling offenses. They will face the likes of quarterbacks Daniel Jones, Deshawn Watson, Will Levis, and Bo Nix. These are winnable games if Anarumo can find some way to get the right players on the field and the right schemes in place to field simply a league-average effort on defense. If he could, there is little doubt that such a prolific offense could carry this team far into the playoffs.

This next week presents the first of many such excellent opportunities for improvement. The New York Giants are 25th in total yards per game. Jones does have them at 13th overall in passing offense, but they are 24th on the ground. The Bengals held Derrick Henry in check for most of the game on Sunday and so can continue that success against New York. Jones is far from elite and even with Hill out, Cincinnati should have a strong chance to lock him down as well.

If the Bengals don’t contain the Giants offense, or at least improve significantly, there is no question that Anarumo’s seat may reach peak levels of heat. He must find a way to turn around the dismal product that Cincinnati fans have seen on the field through five weeks of the season. The redemption arc must start this Sunday, as the Bengals open as 3.5-point favorites against the Giants this week. They will square off on Sunday Night Football at MetLife Stadium.

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How to Watch CES, McLain & More tonight

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8 October 2024

Christian-Encarnacion-Strand-1000x600-1 — CINCINNATI, OHIO - JULY 17: Christian Encarnacion-Strand #33 of the Cincinnati Reds bats in the second inning against the San Francisco Giants at Great American Ball Park on July 17, 2023 in Cincinnati, Ohio. The game was Encarnacion-Strand's MLB debut. (Photo by Dylan Buell/Getty Images)

There are several Cincinnati Reds players out in Arizona right now rehabbing/getting an unofficial start, or finish, if you’re CES, to their 2024 seasons. The Reds have sent several prospects out there as well.

Today’s game will feature Matt McLain, Christian Encarnacion-Strand, & Edwin Arroyo, a club’s top prospect. You can watch it at the stream link below on MLB’s website. The Reds’ affiliate team out there is called the Glendale Desert Dogs.

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Where: Glendale, Arizona

When: Tonight 10/8/24, 4:30 PM EST

Link: https://www.mlb.com/arizona-fall-league/live-streams

Cincinnati Reds Depth Already Taking a Hit for 2025

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8 October 2024

Cincinnati Reds’ MLB Reporter Mark Sheldon dropped some unfortunate news for all of us Reds faithful today while announcing that the Cincinnati Reds were firing all 3 of their hitting coaches.

One of our sleeper prospects will be out all of 2025…

Aguiar, per Mark Sheldon, will be out all of 2025 with Tommy John surgery. Julian made his MLB debut this past season after some really promising, under the radar years in the Reds farm system. Julian is currently the 11th ranked Reds prospect, per MLB Pipeline.

Julian Aguiar’s 2024 was cut short due to this injury, but he did end up making 7 starts for the Reds while throwing 31.2 innings. He had a 6.25 ERA & was bit by the homer bug big time, giving up 8 in so few innings. He did punch out 19, but also walked 12. He was not ready for the big leagues when called upon, but with the Reds injury status so dire, he was a necessity to come log innings. It’s a shame having to utilize a 60 day IL spot so early. Aguiar has some real good stuff and many saw him as potential to be a setup man/long inning relief.

Get better soon, Julian Aguiar.

The Case for Pete Rose: Remembering a Baseball Legend

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8 October 2024

Cincinnati Reds v Pittsburgh Pirates — PITTSBURGH, PA - 1984: Pete Rose of the Cincinnati Reds kneels on deck before batting against the Pittsburgh Pirates during a Major League Baseball game at Three Rivers Stadium in 1984 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. (Photo by George Gojkovich/Getty Images)

Pete Rose, a name synonymous with baseball greatness, should undoubtedly be inducted into the Hall of Fame. With a career that spanned over 24 seasons, Rose holds the record for the most hits in Major League Baseball history, boasting an astonishing 4,256 hits. His relentless drive and unparalleled work ethic earned him the nickname “Charlie Hustle,” as he exemplified what it meant to play the game with passion and commitment. Rose’s versatility on the field, showcased by his ability to excel in multiple positions, contributed to his selection as an All-Star 17 times. He was not only a key player in three World Series championship teams but also a beloved figure who connected with fans, embodying the essence of America’s pastime. To deny Rose a place in the Hall of Fame is to overlook the profound impact he has had on the sport.

Critics often point to Rose’s controversial ban from baseball due to gambling as a reason for his exclusion from the Hall of Fame. However, it is crucial to separate his on-field achievements from his off-field mistakes. The Hall of Fame has welcomed individuals with complex histories, yet Rose’s exceptional contributions to the game cannot be ignored. His record as the all-time hits leader stands as a testament to his skill and dedication, and it deserves recognition, regardless of his personal choices. Inducting Pete Rose into the Hall of Fame would not only honor his remarkable career but also serve as a powerful reminder of the multifaceted nature of sports, where human flaws and extraordinary talent can coexist. It is time for the baseball community to embrace Rose’s legacy and grant him the place he rightfully deserves among the greats of the game.

A Memory That Will Last a Lifetime

One of the best Pete Rose memories for Cincinnati Reds fans is his iconic 1975 World Series performance against the Boston Red Sox. In Game 6 of that series, Rose delivered one of the most memorable moments in baseball history. With the game on the line and the Reds trailing, Rose hit a crucial double in the bottom of the 8th inning that helped propel the Reds to a dramatic comeback victory.

However, it wasn’t just his offensive contributions that stood out; it was Rose’s relentless hustle and determination that defined his legacy. In that game, he famously made a play that showcased his signature style—diving headfirst into second base, exemplifying his “play hard every day” mantra. This relentless spirit helped the Reds secure their first World Series title in 35 years, ultimately defeating the Red Sox in Game 7. Rose’s grit and clutch performance in the 1975 World Series solidified his status as a Reds legend and remains a cherished memory for fans of the team.

Pete Rose’s Achievements

Pete Rose is often remembered for his impressive achievements on the field, which include several titles and accolades, although he has not been inducted into the Hall of Fame. Here are some of his notable achievements:

All-Time Hits Leader: Rose holds the record for the most hits in Major League Baseball history, with 4,256 hits.
Three-Time World Series Champion: Rose won World Series titles with the Cincinnati Reds in 1975, 1976, and 1980.
17-Time All-Star: He was selected to the All-Star Game 17 times during his career, showcasing his consistent performance and popularity.
1973 National League Most Valuable Player (MVP): Rose was named the MVP of the National League in 1973, recognizing his outstanding performance that season.
Two-Time Gold Glove Award Winner: He won Gold Glove Awards in 1969 and 1970 for his defensive excellence at first base.
Rookie of the Year (1963): Rose earned the Rookie of the Year title in 1963, marking the beginning of his illustrious career.
Two-Time batting champion: He won batting titles in 1968 and 1969, highlighting his exceptional hitting ability.
Cincinnati Reds All-Time Hits Leader: Besides being the all-time hits leader in MLB, Rose is also the Reds’ all-time leader in several statistical categories.

Despite these accolades, Rose’s involvement in gambling and subsequent ban from baseball have kept him out of the Hall of Fame, making his achievements even more controversial and significant in discussions about his legacy in the sport.

Rest in Peace, Peter Edward Rose. May your legacy live on forever, just like 14. Cincinnati legend.

Now or Never: Reds’ Crucial Offseason to Build a Contender

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4 October 2024

1. Santander’s Power Could Elevate the Reds

If the Reds were to target a key area for improvement, it would undoubtedly be the outfield. Ideally, they need a consistent, everyday player rather than another platoon option like many of their current outfielders.

In terms of impact, Baltimore’s Anthony Santander stands out as a prime candidate. A dream would be landing a top-tier player like Juan Soto, but most likely is out of reach. Santander is a more realistic option with a proven track record. As a switch-hitter with 43 home runs in a pitcher-friendly ballpark, he’s shown his power. Baseball Savant data suggests that, if Santander played in the Reds’ Great American Ball Park (known for being hitter-friendly), he could have tallied up to 50 home runs this season.

Santander’s bat would thrive in Cincinnati, as GABP would likely turn deep fly balls into more homers. His addition could transform the Reds’ lineup, taking them from a team without a single 30-home-run hitter to potentially having the league leader in home runs in the National League.

2. Extend Elly De La Cruz

De La Cruz is the Reds’ franchise cornerstone, with a rare mix of power, speed, and defensive skills. Locking him into a long-term deal now would secure his place in the team’s core for the future. Signing him early allows Cincinnati to create a contract that is financially smart for the team while providing security for De La Cruz. It also helps the Reds avoid rising arbitration and free agency costs, preserving funds for other necessary roster upgrades. As a fan favorite, committing to him long-term would boost fan engagement and reinforce the Reds’ commitment to their young stars. Additionally, securing De La Cruz now prevents future competition for his services as his market value continues to rise.

3. Relief Pitcher: Chris Martin

Martin has announced that the 2025 season will be his last, and he plans to pursue a one-year contract with a team aiming for the playoffs. Given his track record, Martin should easily secure a high-leverage role on a contender. Over the past two seasons with the Red Sox, he posted a stellar 2.16 ERA over 95 2/3 innings. Although his 2024 ERA of 3.45 wasn’t as impressive as his remarkable 1.05 ERA in 2023, he still struck out 27.8% of batters and maintained an incredibly low walk rate of just 1.7%. Known for his elite command, Martin hasn’t had an ERA over 4.00 in the last six years, making him one of the most reliable relievers in the game. Alexis Diaz will remain the closer unless there is competition that is signed.

4. Honorable Mention: Trevor Bauer

I can speak for most Reds fans on this one, EVERYONE of us would love a return of Trevor Bauer. He once was the highest-paid player in MLB with a $45 million contract in 2022, is now expressing a willingness to sign for the league minimum, estimated at around $740,000, as he seeks to return to baseball following his suspension due to domestic violence allegations. Signing Trevor Bauer could provide the Cincinnati Reds with several significant advantages. Bauer is a proven talent, having won the NL Cy Young Award in 2020 and posting a 2.16 ERA across his last two seasons with the Reds before his suspension, making him a potential starter for a rotation. Bauer has, offering a bargain opportunity for a team needing pitching depth. His return could not only improve the team’s performance but also enhance his trade value as he might be flipped for prospects later in the season (Moreover, bringing Bauer back could rekindle fan interest, as he has expressed appreciation for Cincinnati and its fans in the past. However, the Reds would need to navigate the potential backlash from the controversies surrounding Bauer’s past conduct. With the injury history that Lodolo and Williamson have, a signing would make sense.

Cincinnati Reds Land Legendary Skipper Terry Francona

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3 October 2024

Carsyn Crouch, Nati Sports

Terry Francona, after recently stepping down from managing the Cleveland Guardians due to health concerns, is now set to take over as the new manager of the Cincinnati Reds. This decision comes as a bit of a surprise, given his departure from Cleveland, but his proven track record and ability to nurture young players make him a strong choice for the Reds, a team filled with emerging talent. His leadership is expected to bring a positive impact to their development. His history is down below.

1. Philadelphia Phillies (1997–2000)

Tenure: Francona’s first managerial stint in MLB was with the Philadelphia Phillies, where he managed from 1997 to 2000.
Performance: His tenure in Philadelphia wasn’t particularly successful, as the team struggled through a rebuilding phase, and Francona’s Phillies teams never finished with a winning record. He was dismissed after the 2000 season.

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2. Boston Red Sox (2004–2011)

Tenure: Francona’s most prominent and successful managerial role came with the Boston Red Sox, where he managed from 2004 to 2011.
Key Achievements:
- World Series Titles: Francona guided the Red Sox to two World Series championships, in 2004 and 2007.
  - The 2004 World Series title was particularly historic, as it ended the franchise’s 86-year championship drought (known as the “Curse of the Bambino”).
- 2004 ALCS Comeback: One of the most memorable moments in Francona’s career was the 2004 ALCS, when the Red Sox came back from a 3-0 series deficit to defeat the New York Yankees in seven games. This remains one of the most famous comebacks in sports history.
- Consistency: During his eight seasons in Boston, Francona’s teams were consistently competitive, making five postseason appearances.
End of Tenure: After the 2011 season, which ended with a historic September collapse, Francona and the Red Sox parted ways. There were reports of friction and concerns about clubhouse discipline, but Francona remains beloved by Red Sox fans for his role in ending the championship drought.

3. Cleveland Guardians (2013–2023)

Tenure: In 2013, Francona became the manager of the Cleveland Guardians (formerly Indians).
Key Achievements:
- 2016 World Series: Francona led Cleveland to the 2016 World Series, where they came within one game of winning the championship but lost to the Chicago Cubs in seven games. Like Boston’s 2004 win, the Cubs’ victory also ended a long title drought (108 years).
- Manager of the Year: Francona won American League Manager of the Year awards twice during his time with Cleveland, in 2013 and 2016.
- Consistency: Francona helped the Guardians remain competitive, with multiple playoff appearances during his tenure.
End of Tenure: After managing Cleveland for 11 years, Francona stepped down following the 2023 season. Health issues had been a factor in his decision, as he had dealt with various medical problems during his time with the Guardians.

How happy should Reds fans be? FIRED UP.

Lottery Odds are Out: What Are The Cincinnati Reds Chances?

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3 October 2024

Baseball America was kind enough to do the math for all of us. The Cincinnati Reds will be selecting in the lottery once again as they…once again finished with one of the worst records in baseball. We’re almost used to it, right? Only 6 teams have a higher chance at picking ahead of them.

2024’s Magic

In 2024, the Reds had one of the more dramatic lucks so far with the freshly inputted MLB Lottery system – Devin Mesoraco, jokingly at the time, said he was gonna bring back a top 5 pick. He did it. He brought back the #2 pick – the Reds were statistically not even near that pick, considering they finished over .500, but we got it. Chase Burns ended up being the pick.

Is there anymore magic left?

The Reds will have the 7th best odds to land the #1 overall pick at 3.67%. That would almost, and I say almost lightly, almost guarantee the Reds another top 10 pick. We want to pick inside the top 5 again cause it’s likely we’ll have an additional pick in the 2nd round due to Nick Martinez going to play baseball elsewhere.

MLB draft lottery odds are here.

Here's the breakdown for all 18 teams that missed the playoffs, including an explainer why the White Sox and A's can pick no sooner than 10th this year.https://t.co/1e6124DaMw pic.twitter.com/WsjuuDunW5
— Baseball America (@BaseballAmerica) October 3, 2024

Reds games in 2025 may be broadcasted differently. No more Bally Sports OH?

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3 October 2024