Off The Bench by Chatterbox Sports

Our Farewell For Now Show! Cincinnati Reds Won Ohio Cup! 4 Wins In A Row! Thank You Germaine Pratt

Off the Bench Is Going on Haitus. We will return for the Football Season and be back better than ever!
 
On June 9, 2025, the Cincinnati Reds triumphed over the Cleveland Guardians with a 7-4 victory at Progressive Field, securing the Ohio Cup for the first time since 2014. The Reds, led by manager Terry Francona, unleashed an offensive barrage, amassing 16 hits. Jake Fraley shone with three hits, including a home run, while TJ Friedl also went yard, boosting the team's morale. Wade Miley delivered a solid pitching performance, and Pagan sealed the win with a strong close. This victory marked the Reds' fourth straight win, improving their record to 34-33 and pushing them above .500 for the first time since May 19. The Ohio Cup, a symbol of Buckeye State bragging rights, was clinched after the Reds dominated the season series, including a sweep of the Guardians earlier in May. Fans celebrated the return of the trophy to Cincinnati, with social media buzzing about the team’s momentum. Friedl humorously noted the cup could hold “two and a half 12-ounce Coors Lights,” adding a lighthearted touch to the achievement. This win signals the Reds’ growing confidence as they aim to close the 6.5-game gap behind the NL Central-leading Cubs. On June 9, 2025, the Cincinnati Bengals released linebacker Germaine Pratt, a team captain and their 2024 leading tackler with 143 tackles. The move, reported by NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero, saves $5.6-$5.9 million in 2025 cap space but incurs $2.3 million in dead money. Pratt, a 2019 third-round pick, requested a trade in February after defensive coordinator Lou Anarumo’s departure, signaling discontent with the new scheme under Al Golden. His release, following a career-high season with two interceptions and two forced fumbles, weakens a defense already criticized for allowing 30+ points against top offenses in 2024. The Bengals aim to replace Pratt with younger talent, including second-round pick Demetrius Knight Jr. and fourth-rounder Barrett Carter, alongside free agent Oren Burks. However, transitioning to rookies risks inexperience at a critical position, potentially exacerbating defensive struggles. Fans on X expressed dismay, fearing a further decline in defensive performance, while some see Pratt landing with Anarumo’s Indianapolis Colts. The Bengals’ shift to youth and speed, as noted by director Duke Tobin, prioritizes long-term flexibility but may hinder immediate competitiveness in a tough AFC North.

Cincinnati Reds Sweep The Diamondbacks to Get Back to .500, Ohio Cup Part Two Starts Tonight!

The Cincinnati Reds, now 33-33, roared back to .500 with a commanding three-game sweep over the Arizona Diamondbacks at Great American Ball Park, showcasing offensive firepower and resilient pitching. The series, concluding on June 8, 2025, saw the Reds overcome early deficits and weather challenges, including rain delays, to secure a 4-2 victory in the finale. Christian Encarnacion-Strand, fresh off the injured list, was a standout, going 7-for-13 with six RBIs, including a solo homer in the fifth inning of the final game. Jose Trevino tied the game with another solo shot, and Matt McLain delivered the decisive blow—a two-run homer in the seventh off Arizona’s Zac Gallen, who allowed four runs over 6 2/3 innings. Brady Singer kept the Reds competitive, pitching five innings and allowing two runs despite taking a comebacker to his arm. Taylor Rogers earned the win with two scoreless relief innings, and Tony Santillan sealed the sweep with his second save. The Reds’ earlier wins included a 4-3, 10-inning thriller and a 13-1 rout, highlighting their offensive depth and bullpen strength. . Now, the Reds head to Progressive Field for a three-game series against the Cleveland Guardians (34-30), starting today, June 9, 2025. This matchup follows Cincinnati’s sweep of Cleveland in May, adding intensity to the battle for the Ohio Cup. The Reds aim to maintain momentum against a Guardians team chasing the AL Central-leading Detroit Tigers. Cincinnati’s probable starters are Wade Miley (0-0, 18.00 ERA), Andrew Abbott (5-1, 2.18 ERA), and Nick Lodolo (4-4, 3.21 ERA), facing Cleveland’s Luis Ortiz (3-6, 4.02 ERA), Slade Cecconi (1-2, 4.87 ERA), and Logan Allen (3-4, 4.42 ERA). Miley’s return from injury makes his start a question mark, but Abbott’s consistency and Lodolo’s solid outings provide stability. Cleveland’s José Ramírez, with 12 homers, remains a threat, though their recent 5-3 loss to Houston exposed vulnerabilities. The Reds, buoyed by their sweep, must navigate Cleveland’s strong 17-13 home record. One win secures the Ohio Cup, but Cincinnati’s focus is on climbing the NL Central standings. Expect a competitive series with the Reds’ bats aiming to exploit Cleveland’s pitching.

Tyrese Haliburton Does It AGAIN!! Diamondbacks Come To Cincinnati For Weekend Series With The Reds

Last night, the Indiana Pacers stunned the basketball world with a thrilling 111-110 victory over the Oklahoma City Thunder in Game 1 of the 2025 NBA Finals. Tyrese Haliburton’s game-winning shot capped a dramatic 15-point fourth-quarter comeback, marking Indiana’s fifth such rally this postseason. Pascal Siakam led with 19 points and 10 rebounds, while Obi Toppin’s 17 points off the bench sparked the upset. The Pacers’ relentless pace and clutch play set the tone for a competitive series, proving their underdog status is no fluke. Switching to baseball, the Cincinnati Reds face a critical weekend series against the Chicago Cubs at Great American Ball Park. The Reds, hovering around .500, are fighting to stay in the NL Central race. After a rollercoaster May, where they split series against strong teams like the Dodgers and Braves, Cincinnati needs consistency. Their offense, led by Elly De La Cruz’s speed and Jonathan India’s on-base skills, has shown flashes of brilliance but struggles with runners in scoring position, batting just .240 in those spots this season. The Cubs, sitting third in the division, are a tough matchup. Their pitching staff, anchored by Shota Imanaga (2.95 ERA), has been stingy, allowing the third-fewest runs in the NL. Chicago’s lineup, powered by Cody Bellinger and Seiya Suzuki, thrives on exploiting mistakes, making Cincinnati’s pitching staff—prone to wildness—vulnerable. Reds starter Hunter Greene (3.45 ERA) takes the mound Friday, aiming to set the tone with his high-90s fastball. However, his command issues (4.1 BB/9) could be costly against the disciplined Cubs. Saturday’s matchup features Nick Lodolo, whose breakout 2025 (3.12 ERA, 9.5 K/9) has been a bright spot for Cincinnati. He’ll face Chicago’s Justin Steele, a lefty who’s limited opponents to a .220 average. The Reds must capitalize early, as the Cubs’ bullpen ranks among the league’s best. Sunday’s finale pits Andrew Abbott against Kyle Hendricks, where Cincinnati’s ability to work counts could decide the game. The Reds need at least two wins to gain ground in the division. De La Cruz’s base-stealing (35 SB) and Spencer Steer’s power (15 HR) will be key. Defensively, Cincinnati must tighten up after recent errors cost them games. Expect a high-energy series with playoff implications, as both teams vie for postseason

Cincinnati Reds Lose Twelfth Straight Series To Milwaukee Brewers... Where Did It All Go Wrong?

On June 4, 2025, the Milwaukee Brewers dominated the Cincinnati Reds with a 9-1 victory at Great American Ball Park, securing their 12th consecutive series win against the Reds. The game, which decided the three-game series, showcased Milwaukee’s offensive firepower and pitching depth, while Cincinnati struggled to find rhythm against a relentless Brewers squad. The Brewers struck early and often, with their bats erupting against Reds starter Andrew Abbott, who had been stellar in May with a 0.55 ERA. Abbott, however, faltered, allowing a season-high five runs. In the third inning, Brice Turang doubled and scored on Andruw Monasterio’s single, giving Milwaukee a 1-0 lead. The fifth inning saw Jackson Chourio’s two-run homer, his 10th of the season, pushing the score to 3-0. Daz Cameron added a two-run shot in the sixth, his first homer since July 2024, further widening the gap. The Brewers capped their offensive onslaught in the ninth with Isaac Collins’ three-run homer off Wade Miley, sealing the 9-1 rout. Milwaukee’s pitching was equally impressive. DL Hall opened, tossing three innings and allowing just one hit, notably escaping a bases-loaded jam in the third by inducing a lineout and groundout. Quinn Priester earned the win, allowing one run over five innings. The Brewers’ staff stifled Cincinnati’s offense, which managed only one run despite loading the bases early, highlighting their inability to capitalize on opportunities. For the Reds, the loss underscored ongoing struggles against their NL Central rivals. Cincinnati’s lone run came late, but their offense fizzled after the third, continuing a trend of failing to score consistently against Milwaukee. The Reds’ defense and baserunning also faltered, with miscues like a strikeout-throwout double play involving catcher Jose Trevino, as noted in posts on X. Fans expressed frustration, with one X user lamenting the Reds’ predictable offensive woes. This game solidified Milwaukee’s dominance over Cincinnati, with a 42-16 record in their last 58 meetings. The Brewers’ balanced attack—combining timely hitting, power, and solid pitching—overwhelmed a Reds team fighting for NL Wild Card contention. As Milwaukee looks ahead to a series against the Padres, the Reds, now without Hunter Greene due to injury, face an uphill battle to regroup against the Diamondbacks.

TJ Friedl Saves The Reds, Cincinnati Will Try To Win a Rubber Match Against The Brewers

On June 3, 2025, the Cincinnati Reds snapped the Milwaukee Brewers' eight-game winning streak with a 4-2 victory at Great American Ball Park, delivering a much-needed boost to their season. The Reds, struggling with a 29-32 record and fourth place in the NL Central, showcased resilience against a red-hot Brewers team that had dominated them in recent matchups, winning 18 of their last 22 games at Cincinnati. This win, highlighted by strong pitching and timely hitting, offered a glimmer of hope for a Reds squad looking to turn their season around under manager Terry Francona. The game’s turning point came early with Reds ace Hunter Greene on the mound. Despite concerns about his right groin, which required an MRI post-game, Greene battled through five innings, allowing just two runs. His performance was gritty, throwing 114 pitches— the most by any MLB pitcher this year— and striking out key Brewers hitters. However, discomfort in the fifth inning forced his early exit, leaving the bullpen to preserve the lead. The Reds’ relievers, often a weak point, stepped up, with the bullpen delivering dominant frames to secure the win. Offensively, the Reds struck early, jumping to a 2-0 lead in the first inning. While their bats went quiet afterward, struggling to capitalize on opportunities—a recurring issue this season—they added crucial runs late to seal the game. Santiago Espinal and TJ Friedl contributed key hits, while Elly De La Cruz, despite personal grief following his sister’s passing, showed heart by playing and adding to the team’s effort. The Reds’ offense, described as “feast or famine” in 2025, leaned on just enough production to outlast Milwaukee’s Christian Yelich, who homered but couldn’t spark a comeback. This victory was more than a single game for Cincinnati. It halted a slide that saw them lose momentum after a promising April. With injuries piling up—outfielder Austin Hays landed on the injured list with a foot contusion—and trade deadline decisions looming, the Reds needed a statement win. While Greene’s health remains a concern, the team’s ability to rally against a division rival suggests potential for a second-half surge. For Reds fans, last night’s win was a reminder of the team’s talent and tenacity, even in a challenging season.

Milwaukee Brewers Best Cincinnati Reds In Game 1, Terry Francona Lineup Questions Persist

On June 2, 2025, the Milwaukee Brewers edged out the Cincinnati Reds 3-2 in Game 1 of their series at Great American Ball Park, extending their winning streak to eight games, the longest since August 2023. The Brewers’ victory was powered by Christian Yelich’s heroics and a resilient pitching effort, while the Reds struggled to capitalize on early momentum. Yelich, fresh off being named National League Player of the Week, delivered the decisive blow with a 417-foot solo home run in the third inning off Reds starter Brady Singer (6-4, 4.60 ERA). The full-count slider, crushed to straightaway center, gave Milwaukee a 3-2 lead they wouldn’t relinquish. Yelich’s hot streak continued, as he’s now batting .450 over a nine-game hitting streak, with six homers and 14 RBIs. Sal Frelick also contributed, going 2-for-4, bolstering the Brewers’ offense. The Reds struck first, scoring two runs in the opening inning against Brewers starter Aaron Civale (1-1, 6.00 ERA). However, Civale settled down, pitching 5 1/3 innings, allowing just those two runs while striking out five. His recovery was critical, especially after missing nearly two months with a strained left hamstring. The Brewers’ bullpen, a strength all season, sealed the deal. Rob Zastryzny, acquired from the Yankees in May, was pivotal in the sixth, striking out Jose Trevino and inducing a groundout from Santiago Espinal with runners on base. Trevor Megill closed the game with a perfect ninth, earning his 12th save in 13 chances. For Cincinnati, the loss highlighted ongoing offensive struggles. Despite the early lead, the Reds managed only a few hits after the first, with Singer’s six innings undermined by Yelich’s homer. The Reds’ inability to convert opportunities, like the sixth-inning threat, underscored their 29-31 record and inconsistent play at home (14-14). The game, played before a lively Cincinnati crowd with temperatures at 76°F, showcased Milwaukee’s depth and resilience. With Freddy Peralta (5-3, 2.77 ERA) set to face Hunter Greene (4-3, 2.63 ERA) in Game 2, the Brewers aim to keep their streak alive. Meanwhile, the Reds, desperate to snap out of their funk, face an uphill battle in this series.

Cincinnati Reds Lose Yet Another Rubber Match, Fall 8.5 Games Back In NL Central

The Cincinnati Reds and Chicago Cubs faced off in an electrifying three-game series at Wrigley Field from May 30 to June 1, 2025, showcasing intense NL Central rivalry. Both teams entered with momentum—the Cubs fresh off a sweep of the Rockies, boasting a 35-21 record, and the Reds, at 28-29, looking to rebound after dropping two of three to the Cubs the prior weekend at Great American Ball Park. The series, marked by strong pitching, timely hitting, and dramatic moments, lived up to its billing. On Friday, May 30, the Reds struck first, winning 6-2 behind Andrew Abbott’s seven shutout innings. Cincinnati’s offense capitalized early, while the Cubs’ bats struggled against Abbott’s command. Despite Seiya Suzuki’s recent NL Player of the Week honors, Chicago couldn’t solve the Reds’ lefty, setting the tone for a competitive weekend.
Saturday, May 31, saw the Cubs bounce back with a 2-0 shutout, leveling the series. Chicago’s pitching, led by a strong outing from their starter, stifled the Reds’ lineup. The Cubs scored late, with clutch hits breaking through against a Reds bullpen that had faltered in their previous matchup. Pete Crow-Armstrong’s speed and defensive prowess in center field added energy, while the Wrigley faithful celebrated a gritty win. The series finale on June 1 was a 7-3 Cubs victory, securing the series 2-1. Michael Busch’s three-run homer and three hits from Crow-Armstrong, who also stole two bases, powered Chicago. Jameson Taillon delivered 6.1 innings, allowing two runs, including a two-run shot by Elly De La Cruz.
The Cubs’ 5-1 homestand propelled them to 37-22, 15 games above .500, while the Reds fell to 28-31. Chicago’s bullpen, which allowed just one run in their prior series, remained a strength. This series highlighted the Cubs’ depth and resilience, with contributions from stars like Dansby Swanson and emerging talents like Crow-Armstrong. For the Reds, De La Cruz’s flash and Abbott’s dominance showed promise, but their bullpen’s inconsistency proved costly. Both teams, vying for NL Central supremacy, demonstrated why this rivalry remains a cornerstone of baseball’s heartland. Fans eagerly await their next clash in August at Wrigley

Elly De La Cruz Powers Reds to Series Win in Kansas City, Tyler Stephenson Getting Hot

On May 27, 2025, the Cincinnati Reds secured a commanding 7-2 victory over the Kansas City Royals at Kauffman Stadium, clinching the series and showcasing their offensive and pitching prowess. The game, part of a three-game set, saw the Reds improve to 28-28, while the Royals dropped to 29-26. The standout performance came from shortstop Elly De La Cruz, whose two towering home runs electrified the crowd and powered the Reds’ offense. De La Cruz’s bombs, described as “massive” by MLB’s official account, were pivotal in building a lead that Kansas City couldn’t overcome. Brady Singer, facing his former team, delivered a masterful performance on the mound for Cincinnati. The right-hander pitched seven strong innings, allowing just two runs while scattering hits and keeping the Royals’ bats quiet. Singer’s command was evident as he navigated a lineup that has struggled offensively, with Kansas City ranking 13th in the American League with a .664 team OPS. His ability to settle down after a shaky start and pitch into the seventh inning was lauded by fans and analysts alike, with posts on X noting his “great job” and efficiency. The Reds’ offense complemented Singer’s gem with timely hitting. TJ Friedl reached base four times, including a bunt single, while Santiago Espinal chipped in with two hits. The team’s aggressive approach at the plate capitalized on Royals pitcher Daniel Lynch IV, who was making only his second start of the season after transitioning from the bullpen. Cincinnati’s early scoring set the tone, and De La Cruz’s homers in the middle innings put the game out of reach. Defensively, the Reds were sharp, with manager Terry Francona’s strategic decisions paying dividends. Ian Gibaut closed out the game, securing the five-run lead. The victory was celebrated across Reds’ fanbase, with outlets like FOX19 and RedsDaily4 highlighting the team’s balanced attack and Hunter Greene’s upcoming start for a potential sweep on May 28. Despite injuries to key players like Jake Fraley and Jeimer Candelario, the Reds showed resilience, leveraging their young talent and veteran leadership. This win underscored their potential in a competitive NL Central, setting the stage for a critical series finale.

Cincinnati Reds Bounce Back From Rough Weekend With Memorial Day Win in Kansas City

The Cincinnati Reds faced the Chicago Cubs in a thrilling three-game weekend series at Great American Ball Park, concluding on May 25, 2025. The Cubs, leading the NL Central, dominated the series, winning two of three games, showcasing their offensive prowess and late-inning resilience. The Reds, fighting to stay competitive in the division, struggled to contain Chicago’s bats but salvaged a win against the Kansas City Royals on Monday, May 26, 2025, boosting their momentum. On Friday, May 23, the Cubs opened the series with a 13-6 rout. Chicago’s lineup erupted, capitalizing on Cincinnati’s pitching struggles. Seiya Suzuki, a standout all weekend, went 7-for-12 in the series, setting the tone early. The Reds’ offense, led by Austin Hays’ two hits and three RBIs, couldn’t keep pace, as Chicago’s 29-7 record when recording eight or more hits proved too much. Saturday’s game saw the Cubs edge out a victory, with their pitching staff, led by Colin Rea (3-0, 2.38 ERA), holding firm despite a late Reds push, fueled by Elly De La Cruz’s .241 average and 33 RBIs. Sunday’s finale was a rollercoaster. The Reds led 8-4, but the Cubs mounted a comeback, scoring seven runs in the final four innings. Seiya Suzuki’s go-ahead three-run homer and Reese McGuire’s historic two-homer debut off the bench powered an 11-8 Cubs victory. Nico Hoerner and Pete Crow-Armstrong each drove in two runs, while Drew Pomeranz earned the win with a scoreless inning. The Reds’ bullpen, notably Taylor Rogers (1-2), faltered, dropping Cincinnati to 25-27 and third in the NL Central, while the Cubs solidified their 31-20 division lead. Following the series loss, the Reds rebounded on Monday against the Kansas City Royals, winning 7-4 at Kauffman Stadium. Nick Martinez (2-5, 3.43 ERA) delivered seven strong innings, and Tyler Stephenson’s homer sparked the offense. The Reds’ 17-5 record when scoring five or more runs held true, as they capitalized on early opportunities and held off a late Royals rally. This victory, highlighted by posts on X, pushed Cincinnati’s record to 26-27, offering hope as they navigate a critical stretch of division games, including upcoming matchups against the Cubs and Milwaukee.

Hunter Greene is BACK as The Cincinnati Reds Return Home To Face The Chicago Cubs

The Cincinnati Reds are set to face the National League Central-leading Chicago Cubs in a pivotal three-game series at Great American Ball Park, starting Friday, May 23, 2025. This series marks the return of Reds ace Hunter Greene from the 15-day injured list, a development that has fans and analysts buzzing with anticipation. Greene’s comeback is a critical boost for Cincinnati as they aim to close the gap with the division-leading Cubs. Greene, a first-time All-Star in 2024, has been sidelined since May 7 due to a Grade 1 right groin strain sustained during a start against Atlanta. Before the injury, the 25-year-old right-hander was dominant, posting a 4-2 record with a 2.36 ERA over 45.2 innings, striking out 61 batters while issuing just eight walks, and maintaining a stellar 0.81 WHIP. His return on Friday, confirmed by manager Terry Francona, follows a successful 35-pitch simulated game on May 18, where Greene reported no discomfort and easy velocity. Francona’s confidence in Greene’s readiness underscores the pitcher’s meticulous preparation, including a bullpen session in Pittsburgh this week. Facing the Cubs, Greene brings a strong track record. He is 4-1 with a 4.06 ERA in seven career starts against Chicago, including a standout performance on May 26, 2023, when he tossed six no-hit innings with 11 strikeouts in a 9-0 victory at Wrigley Field. However, Cubs outfielder Seiya Suzuki poses a challenge, hitting .462 with two homers in 13 at-bats against Greene. Chicago will counter with left-hander Matthew Boyd (4-2, 2.98 ERA), who has struggled in Cincinnati, going 0-3 with a 9.69 ERA in four career starts. The Reds’ rotation for the series is formidable, with Andrew Abbott (3-0, 1.80 ERA) and Nick Lodolo (4-4, 3.22 ERA) slated for Saturday and Sunday. Cincinnati, sitting at .500, sees this series as a chance to gain ground in the NL Central, especially with two of their next four series against the Cubs. Greene’s return injects energy and leadership into a young Reds squad, and his performance could set the tone for a crucial stretch. With the Cubs riding high, this matchup promises high-stakes baseball, with Greene’s electric arm at the forefront.