Matt’s Take: Relax, the Reds will make the playoffs; Bengals preseason analysis

By Matthew McAdow 
HCP columnist

I had a lot more confidence in saying the Reds would make the playoffs about two weeks ago, but I think we all need to take a deep breath. What is that statement from Anger Management?...Goosfraba?  

I think we all could say it a few times and calm down before writing off this team just yet. As it stands, the Reds have a record of 62-58. They are a 0.5 game back from being in the playoffs in a wildcard spot, along with being 3.5 games back of the Brewers in the National League Central. While we all are scoreboard watching the Brewers and Cubs, we need to be keeping a close eye on the Phillies, Giants, Marlins and Diamondbacks as well. With many significant players returning this month, I expect to see things really turnaround in the next two weeks.  

It’s time to have the tough conversation. As much as I love Tyler Stephenson, I think the past week or so has solidified who the Reds' best option behind the plate really is – and unfortunately, it is not Tyler Stephenson. In limited playing time, Luke Maile is batting .252 with five home runs. His ability to frame pitches and his arm was a big reason the Reds were able to come home with a series victory in Pittsburgh.  

I hate to see Stephenson struggle like he has this year. He only has three hits since July 30.  Stephenson batted .319 last season, along with .286 in 2021, and .294 in 2020. I believe he is just having a bad year and will soon be back to form, but now that the Reds are in a playoff push, it’s time for a more even split between the two catchers.  

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Schedule watch

• Reds' next 3 opponents: Guardians, Blue Jays, Angels;

• Cubs' next 3 opponents: White Sox, Royals, Tigers (easy schedule);

• Brewers' next 3 opponents: Dodgers, Rangers, Twins (yikes);

• Phillies' next 3 opponents: Blue Jays, Nationals, Giants;

• Giants' next 3 opponents: Rays, Braves, Phillies (yikes);

• Marlins' next 3 opponents: Astros, Dodgers, Padres (yikes).

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Bengals preseason analysis

Football season is upon us at last. I am more than looking forward to Sunday recliner time along with tuning into football games all day (other than the whole YouTube TV fiasco, I despise streaming).  

While it was only preseason, it was great to finally watch a game, along with seeing some of the Bengals' young players get some snaps. While the score ended at 36-19 in favor of Green Bay, I never put much thought into the final score during August games. We are now less than a full month away from the first-game clash with the Browns on Sept. 10, so it is only right to take a look at the weekly positives and negatives.

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Positives

• Andrei Iosivas is going to be special. The new wide receiver had 4 catches for 50 yards and has proven throughout camp that he was a “steal” for Cincinnati in the sixth round. His ability to find the ball will land him a spot on the roster for this season.

• Chase Brown showed off his ability to catch the ball in the backfield, while racking up 3 receptions for 33 yards.  

• Tycen Anderson made his mark on the game with 2 interceptions including a pick-6. Among all defenders in all first week preseason games, he had the highest defensive grade and coverage grade. Talk about making an impact.

Negatives

• If Joe Burrow would be out for a significant amount of time ever, I still don’t believe they have a backup that is capable of carrying this team to multiple wins if needed.  

• Myles Murphy will be great in a Bengals uniform, but he certainly struggled in his first bit of NFL action. He didn’t make much of an impact and the Bengals really need him to be effective in the pass rush game.

• Penalties were a big issue, as Cincinnati had 10 penalties for 95 yards. In a Lou Anarumo led defense, I believe this will quickly change.

• 3rd Down efficiency was not great, as Cincinnati was just 4-15 on 3rd down.

Matthew McAdow is a graduate of Ohio Christian University. He lives in Peebles.