Silverberg Making a Run for MVP?
Apr 1, 2009
Posted by Rob Phair

Silverberg expects Great Things this season.

MVP GUARANTEE?!?!!?!!?!?
“MVP baby; I’m killin it! I own the Mound.” “When Silverberg hits the mound, it’s already game over.” Bengals newest starting pitcher hopes to do more then just fill the $18 million shoes. After signing a three year - $18.4 million rookie contract with the Bengals this off-season Jason Silverberg has a right to show confidence. In an interview Friday night Silverberg basically said he will compete for MVP, a bold prediction but one the Bengals would love to see happen. Silverberg will have a good chance at bringing the Bengals back to back Western Rookie of the Year winners after Jonathan Amendola won the award last season. Winning the MVP will however be a much tougher task, with last year’s winner Jason Woodford of the twins, and runner ups Christopher Hayes and Jamie Kozak of Burlington Bulls sure to put up a challenge. There will also be a few other players in this league that will be gunning for the best of the best label. Last season pitching for the OBA Mississauga Tigers Silverberg went 7-4 with a 3.43 ERA and averaged 7 K’s per 9 innings and was a nominee for the Gold Glove award for pitchers. Silverberg will start the season in the 3 spot in the rotation most likely based on spring training stats, where he has started 4 games going 2-1 with a 2.71 ERA. When asked how many wins he would have this season Silverberg only said “How many starts will I get? If you can tell me that, repeat the number and you’ll know your wins question.”

Leave of Absence
In a weird turn of events Coach and GM Ryan Rattos is taking a leave of absence from the Bengals day to day operations in attempts to enter Q school training. Rattos, an avid golfer, has informed the organization that he needs to leave for at least a month in attempts to qualify for the PGA tour. Ryan, the third best golfer in his family, behind Craig and Jonathan, will be leaving on April 3rd for at least three weeks and as a result ,will miss the main part of spring training. Ryan has said that it is just something he wants and needs to do.

Skrela ella ola Back with the Bengals
After being off since 2006 Skrela will look to regain the swagger of being an everyday ball player. Coming to terms on a 1 year 3.81 million dollar contract with a team option for 2010. Mark Skrela will most likley wear his number 4 jersey once again. Long time Bengals vet Jeff Routledge when asked to comment on the signing only had good things to say “Skrela always had the bat, hitting both gap to gap power and great contact. His speed on the bases and in the field add a quick benefit in so many aspects of the game.” He also went on to talk about strenghts not seen on the field calling him a great club house guy a real team first player. Cody Ireland the Bengals longest tenured player said I love Mark but he can kiss my ass if he thinks he's playing CF. I hear there is an opening for LF, maybe he can play there. Other then that I'm pumped to have him back, I can't wait for sleep overs at his house again. It will be interesting to see who starts opening day while Cody Ireland serves his 2 game suspension.

Stand In Standing Out
Mar 23, 2009
Posted by Rob Phair

Hlynsky's Absence has oppened the door for other teammates this spring.

Stand in Left Fielder Craig Rattos Standing Out in Hlynsky's Absence
While taking over left field duties for the Bengals during the disgruntled Hlynsky's holdout, Craig Rattos has flourished in his opportunity. Since Hlynsky’s ongoing saga and struggling contract negotiations continue to present themselves, Craig Rattos has stepped in to the all stars shoes, at least this thus far into the spring season. Starting all but one of the teams' 11 games to date, C Rattos is showing it all. He is hitting an amazing 0.587 with a devastating 0.787 with runners in scoring position. Three triples, six doubles and 13 RBIs at the plate, while adding flawless defence including an astounding 4 outfield assists so far. When asked about the potential of starting opening day in left for the Bengals, C Rattos quickly responded, “Brando is the best option our team has for left, but I’m more than willing to do my best to step up in his absence. The organization has explained to me the situation and I know that he is the left fielder for the Bengals, if we are able to sign him.” At this point the Bengals still say that April 18th is the cut off date for signing Hlynsky. According to OSBA rules, if Hlynsky, who is a 5-year veteran all with one team, and the Bengals organization cannot come to terms by the league cut off day of April 30th, Hlynsky will become a semi-restricted free agent. This means that any team that wishes to sign him must send 2 draft picks and monetary compensation to the Bengals, all values decided upon by OSBA president. If the Bengals do fail in their attempts to sign Hlynsky, 0.587 isn’t a bad start. Maybe C Rattos is more ready then he even knows.

Emotionally let Down
Cody Ireland has always been an emotional leader for the team. This time it seems like his emotions got the best of him and it looks like it will cost him. After playing in a charity golf tournament on Sunday, Cody Ireland was not exactly coming to defence of his friend. C Ireland was asked what he thought of Hlynsky’s hold out. Cody like many times in the past, wasn’t able to keep emotions in tack, this time however it was a little different. Ireland blew up, he said Brandon is being a childish idiot. Only thinking about himself, not caring for an organization or teammates that have been so good to him. “If he wants to go, let him leave, I couldn’t give 2 (explicits) about him.” He also said in his opinion the team should trade him for 3 bats, one of the bats could even be one of the stupid metal wood bats. If it all stopped there it probably wouldn’t of been an issue. However another reporter asked if the team would be ok without the services of Hlynsky. Ireland then exploded! “Enough with the (explicit) questions about that (explicit) (explicit). I’ve heard enough. Brandon is being a (explicit) I couldn’t care less if that (explicit) plays another game in the (explicit) OSBA he can go to (explicit) for all I care.” He then tossed his chair out on to the field and said that the interviews were done and not to ask him any questions about that (explicit) (explicit). The Bengals have already informed C Ireland that he has been suspended from playing in the teams opening game and it is expected that the OSBA will also add another game to that suspension, taking Ireland out of the teams first series this upcoming 2009 season. A monetary fine will also be handed down to Ireland due to verbal abuse of league reporters. This fine is a minimum $25,000 and up to a maximum fine of $250,000 under OSBA laws.

Nicol Diagnosed with Rare Sickness
Garrett Nicol's diagnos not good! It seems that Nicol has been diagnosed with a disease that has only been a confirmed diagnosis in three other cases to date. After extensive testing it seems that Nicol’s rare disease is actually a phobia. Gnisitcarpsetahphobia, which is a phobia of days, in Nicol’s case his is a fear of Wednesdays will keep Nicol out of all Wednesday activities. The Bengals only scheduled batting practice day happens to be Wednesday’s during the off season. Nicol who has missed every batting practice this spring season has come under a lot of scrutiny especially from players on the team including C Rattos who has expressed his displeasure with Nicol’s choice to forgo practices. Posting on Nicol’s wall C Rattos said “hey you (explicit), you better be on your best behaviour tmrw ...ur goin to have to be a role model to the younger players on the team (me).” In another post saying “Come to the cages Marabelli.” Other players and coaches have also showed displeasure in his absence. Now however it is all explained, Although Gnisitcarpestahphobia is not treatable, it can be managed with medication. The team has flirted with changing their scheduled batting practice to Thursdays in attempt to allow Nicol to practice with the team during this trying time.

Hlynsky Angers 'Teammates'
Mar 9, 2009
Posted by Rob Phair

Disgruntled Hlynsky shows up to spring training and angers teammates

Dodging?
All-star Left fielder Brandon Hlynsky shocks many as he showed up for the Bengals Saturday afternoon spring training game, kinda… It’s probably been a long time since Hlynsky had to buy a ticket to watch a ball game, however that’s exactly what he did on Saturday. The disgruntled, unsigned left fielder went as far as wearing a Brooklyn Dodgers jersey with the number 09 and then question mark(?) under his name on the back of the jersey. At one point Hlynsky was caught holding up a sign saying "Go Bengals go; straight to the basement!!" After the game a few player showed their displeasure with Hlynsky and questioned his desire to remain with the team.

First string catcher Andrew Costley was quoted as saying “This showing of immaturity didn’t impress anyone with a Brain; if he wants to be a Bengal then he should sit at the negotiating table with the organization and hammer out the details. If he doesn’t then just say so and can rid our only distraction from the club house.” Coach Rattos Maintains that the organization has sent numerous offers to Mr Hlynsky and his agent. All of which are offers that are set to what the standards of an all star calibre player would expect to receive in today’s market. He also said that he is very disappointed in Hlynsky’s decision to parade himself around like a side show at the game. “If Brandon is interested in being part of the entertainment staff, I’m sure we can find a way to get him a job. All he has to do is apply and I’m sure we can work out a contract for that. He won’t even need an agent for those negotiations.” A spokesperson for the Bengals informed the media that a cut off date has been set for April 18th 2009, at which point if a contract agreement has not been reached then the franchise will begin actively seeking trading of Hlynsky’s controlling options.

Viagra
Fans will see starting pitcher Andrew McDermid in a jersey other then that of a Bengal come opening day 2009. Not to worry fans he is still a Bengal, he will just be sporting his new sponsors jersey in a commercial to be aired Bengals opening day. At the ripe young age of 24 it may be a weird sponsorship, but Pitcher Andrew McDermid is the new spokesperson for Viagra. With the dialog using a play on words McDermid after throwing a fast ball clocked at 81 turns to the camera and winces while uttering “only 81.” Then smiles and says “Well; something’s you can’t help get back up to what they once were.” Lucky for us in this day and age there’s something that can help you get up for others.” McDermid who denies use of Viagra claims he just wants to be a part of helping to educate the world on the benefits of the products to a happy life and marriage.

Golf Tournament
Tickets went on sale for the Bengals second annual charity golf tournament, to be held in Guelph April 24th to 26th. For information on how to get tickets or sponsor the event contact the Bengals forum.

A-Roids mystery cousin?
Mar 2, 2009
Posted by Rob Phair

JR has been linked to Pitman Pharmaceuticals in Burlington in 2004.	The Best 'Stache in the OSBA

There has recently been information leaked linking Jeff Routledge of the Mississauga Bengals to A Rod in early 2003. Bengals fans may recall Routledge’s great 2004 season, Routledge set career personal best in almost every offensive category, including home runs. Shipping records from Pitman Pharmecutical in Burlington, Ontario show shipments being received by Jamie Routledge, Jeff's personal trainer and brother. Although the exact contents of the packages have not been confirmed, a source close to the situation has informed media that the packages received were two different anabolic steroids. The two being testosterone and Primobolan, which apparently Rodriguez and Routledge both tested positive for during their 2003 seasons playing for the Texas Rangers and the Mississauga Bengals respectively. Bengals player coach and GM Ryan Rattos said that he has spoken to Routledge and has gaurnteed league officals that he will fully co-operate with the investigation. Routledge is to have drug test Monday morning in Mississauga and is expected to meet up with the team on Monday evening at their spring trainning complex in Clearwater Florida.

Bengals smash the Conlon rumour right outta the park
After lengthy rumours began swirling on the Bulls Guestbook, the Bengals Organization stated that a Conlon trade to the Bengals will not happen, no way, no how. In a statement made early this morning on Coach Rattos’ regular time slot on all sports talk radio 109.4. Menezes slide piece is not only as good as it’s ever been, its actually improving. Coach Rattos did admit however, that The E-Con 'stache would be a great fit on any team's roster. Any team by a financial stand point would greatly benefit in having one of the best 'stache’s in the league. Female attendance at games in which Conlon sports the 'stache raise approximately 16.4% and an astounding 28.6% when he is the starting pitcher. Even with the possible benefit of the extra fans in the stands, losing Menezes slider would limit him to just a fast ball, which of course would confirm the nick name Menezes girlfriend has called him all along. (Jonny one speed, that one speed being fast.)

New Field
RTS has made a strong bid for the advertising rights of the Bengals un-named stadium. After last seasons Quenippenon park contract ran out the two sides couldn’t come to terms on a new deal. RTS has swooped in with an offered attempt at renaming the park RTS Field for at least the upcoming season. The offer on the table is said to be a 3 year 12.3 million dollar deal with winning incentives available. The incentives included in the deal are as such:

$500,000 if the team is to win 18 games during any of the three seasons
$500,000 if the team wins 50 games (regular season) in the three seasons combined
$1,000,000 if the team receives home field advantage for the playoffs in any season
$3,000,000 if the team wins the OSBA Championship

At this point there is at least one other offer that has been presented to the Bengals organization, however a source close to the situation said that the deal with RTS is basically set in stone. There is a press conference set for Thursday March 5th where it is believed that an announcement of the signing of the Bengals and RTS Ltd. contract should be announced.

DaCosta's Troubles Continue...
Feb 6, 2009
Posted by Rob Phair

DaCosta hopes he can put all these troubles behind him and return healthy in '09.

Gregory DaCosta has met with team and league officials, this week and the news is not good. At this point DaCosta is to forfeit 50% ($3.425 million) of his upcoming season salary and $1.3 million in signing bonuses due to a breach of contract. Along with that news, he has been informed that a full investigation has been launched into his off-season activities. Released to the meeting members on Monday morning was banking information that shows Mr. DaCosta travelling all over the world, to places famous for dangerous activities.  These places include Alpine Meadows in Tahoe City, California; Whistler Blackcomb in British Columbia, Canada; Stowe Mountain Resort in Stowe, Vermont; and the Sierra Resort Hotel in Hakuba, Japan. -- all top of the line Snowboard and skiing resorts, as well as other extreme sports resorts.

If DaCosta is found to have broken more stipulations in his contract it will lead to voiding his current contract and the potential of possible fines. The most alarming of the trips came last season during an off week in which he strained his lower back. When reporting to a game DaCosta complained of a lower back pain that just happened while he was sleeping. He claimed to of woken up with discomfort and it was all chalked up to sleeping in a bed he wasn’t used to. It turns out that during the week of he was actually in a different bed then his usual, however it was at Sierra Resort Hotel in Hakuba, Japan, one of the top snowboarding resorts in the world. In a telephone interview with Mr. DaCosta he was more then willing to participate in a question-and-answer period.

Bull Pen: First of all how are you feeling? Is your recovery rate on pace with the normal expected?

Greg DaCosta: Feeling alright considering. Doctors have me on some strong meds to keep the pain under control so this can heal up properly. In terms of recovery rate, it is too early to tell. I'll get a better idea once we get it reevaluated on the 6th of February.

Bull Pen: what is the time line that was give to you from the doctors? Do you expect to miss the whole season?

Greg DaCosta: The timeline is very up in the air. The bone break should be healed in 6 to 8 weeks time. The doctors have warned me however that I'm not out of the woods yet. The cartiledge and soft tissue damage will take a bit longer and require a lot of rehab. I cant make any guesses on whether or not this season will be a possibility. I'm hoping itis obviously but we have to wait and see and do whats best for myself and the team
in the long run.

Bull Pen: Did you only injure your wrist or will there be any other medical concerns stemming from your fall?

Greg DaCosta: The only medical concern stemming from the energy is regaining the range of motion in my wrist and use of my hand. They also said I have the liklihood of getting osteoarthirhitis in the wrist but that i might have to deal with and battle through

Bull Pen: The Bengals have been known to always have a tight knit group, family if you will. Have any of the players contacted you since learning of your injury to offer any assistance with your recovery?

Greg DaCosta: Just about everyone has sent me well wishes and offers of assistance. Even our newest acquisition, J-Berg sent me me a msg this week...we havnt spoken for years since our teams were rivals, so that was pretty cool.

Bull Pen: Are you able to confirm or deny the allegations of the information brought forward to the courts on Monday morning?

Greg DaCosta: I havn't been contacted by Rattos or anyone from the team about a breach in contract. As far as I know I'm still under contract for this year and next. Then I look forward to sitting down and working out an extension.

Bull Pen: Do you think that Nicol, Kibsey and the newly acquired Eric Beresford will be able to maintain a high level of play at 1st base in your absence this season?    

Greg DaCosta: Well its not like my play was very high level last season. with the hole left by otoole, kibbs will be needed onthe mound so i expect a good battle between bear and gare for time at one bag. i'm hoping i could join that battle at some point, sooner than later.

When asked of the back pain issues, Mr. DaCosta declined to comment, just saying his representatives are taking care of the issues. He did say however that his back was feeling 100% so as soon as his wrist healed he would be a force to be reckoned with.

Nicol: "New Contract or New Team"
Feb 3, 2009
Posted by Rob Phair

Since joining the Bengals in 2005, Nicol has put up some solid numbers.

After Free agent contracts given to J Ireland (3.31 per year), Beresford (3.43 per year), C Rattos (3.88 per year) and Silverberg (6.13 per year), and the resignings of Veteran All-Star center fielder C Ireland (1 year 6 million dollar contract), and Ace all star Menezes signing an OSBA’s record 7 year $74.9 Million dollar contract, Garrett Nicol claims he is left with a sour taste in his mouth. Nicol said “I’m a main center-piece of this team, and my offensive numbers are second to none...In this league for that matter.” He also went on to stress that with DaCosta’s, injury he is going to be looked upon to step up on the defensive side. Nicol’s contract was initially signed at the beginning of the 2005 season and was a 5 year $16.5 million contract with a player opt out option for years 4 and 5. Nicol’s contract pays him 3.3 million per year, less then all four Bengal free agents offseason pickups. Bengals GM maintains that “Mr. Nicol accepted the option for this upcoming season on December 22nd 2008, so he is expected to report to camp on February 15th.” Nicol was not available for comment.


Beresford Situation
“There is no doubt in my mind that by midnight tonight Eric Beresford will be signed sealed and delivered to Bengals nation.” 3 years $10.28 (average of 3.43 million per year). With bonuses that could have the contract exceed $15 million based on performances each season. Among the possible bonuses includes a 1 million per season clause for leading the team in RBI’s. A press conference later this week will officially make Eric Beresford a Mississauga Bengal. Beresford will don a Bengals # 22 jersey when spring training gets under way. “I’m excited to get the season started, I think we have a great season ahead of us, It’s feels great to be able to say “US.” There was never really a doubt in my mind that I would be a part of this organization.” Eric said through a representative.


Hlynsky Negotiations Still Ongoing
On his weekly Monday morning interview on all sports talk radio 109.4, Ryan Rattos said that Brandon Hlynsky did arrive back from his vacation in Mexico however is yet to contact the organization. “At this point there has been no contact with either Brandon or his team of representatives.” “As of right now we are preparing ourselves to possibly start the season without his services, however we will most certainly be contacting him and presenting him with the best possible contract offer available.”

DaCosta in deep; Contract Talks
Jan 26, 2009
Posted by Rob Phair

DaCosta just before his snowboarding accident (left); Rattos and Hlynsky talk to media as contract negotiations are still ongoing (right).

Although Gregory Dacosta’s injury was caused in the cold it left him in some very deep heat. Section 5 of the OSBA's standard player contract stipulates, that “a player will not engage in any activity other than baseball which may involve a significant risk of personal injury”. Therefore, players agree that their club and/or association will have the right to prevent them from engaging in any activity, other than baseball which may result in a significant risk of injury." A portion of DaCosta’s contract, given in the form of a bonus, set to be paid March 1st of every season, is now in jeopardy. Dacosta has two years remaining on a 5 year $34.25 million contract signed after a monster 2005 season in which the first baseman recorded astounding numbers with an average of .500, four(4) homers, a .581 slugging percentage while driving in 26 runs, as well as playing gold glove defence. Dacosta will sit down with his agent, league and team officials upon his arrival to spring training to discuss his future with the organization.

Eric Beresford is now a Bengal… Not so fast. In theory Eric Beresford and the Bengals have reached an agreement. However a verbal and written agreement are always trumped by a failed physical. Sources close to the situation have revealed that the Mississauga Bengals doctors have informed the team that Mr. Beresford does not meet certain requirements that would enable the contract to be accepted under league and team rules and guidelines. When asked of the situation earlier this morning on all sports talk radio 109.4, Manager Ryan Rattos was quick to respond stating “There is no doubt in my mind that by midnight tonight Eric Beresford will be signed sealed and delivered to Bengals nation.” Although figures have yet to be released it is said that the contract on the table is said to be a 3 year $10.28 (average of 3.43 million per year).

Other then the Physical of Eric Beresford the Bengals only have one more player to come to contract agreements with. #19 Brandon Hlynsky the Bengals all star left fielder has not come to terms with the team. Brandon at times quoted as saying “The contract they are offering and the contract I am looking for are so far apart, I think at this point there is a better chance of Ron Jeremy becoming a priest in a catholic church.” The Bengals reportedly offered Hlynsky a 6 year $31.5 million contract (5.25 average per year.) Hlynsky is said to be seeking a 6 year 36 to 39 million dollar figure at an average of 6 to 6.5 million per year, similar yearly value signed by Cody Ireland who recently agreed on a 1 year 6 million dollar contract. The Bengals have until February 8th to come to terms with Hlynsky, at which time he will enter the free agent market. Given permission to speak with other teams about contract possibilities on January 1st Hlynsky’s agent has said that his players market value is probably around 6.5 to 7 million per season however he is willing to sign with the Bengals at a home town discount. Hlynsky who is on a vacation with his girlfriend in Mexico will be coming back on January 30th and will meet with the Benagls staff to attempt to pound out the fine details of a contract that the Bengals hope the two sides can come to an agreement on.

Bengals Fine Du $35,000
Apr 21, 2008
Posted by Rob Phair

The Bengals need to find a new home for their last week away at Spring Training. One of the youngest teams in the OSBA with an average age of 22.6875, may show great maturity on the field but the immature slip ups off the field have gotten them evicted from their spring training home complex located just outside of Clearwater Florida. Since Jon Menezes is still on trial for murder, the coaching staff has had the players pretty much held on a very low key. The incident happened on Friday April 18th 2008, at a team party. An un-identified Bengal invited outside guests in when Coach Rattos left for a meeting. When wind of the party was released, a media circus erupted when questioned by a reporter Steve Simmons for the daily planet why he stands behind a criminal in Jonathan Menezes, Roger Du punched Mr Simmons and was held by police over night. Coach Rattos was quoted in saying “This isn’t Mr Du’s first run in with the law and we will look at his history over the next week or so. The OSBA has not handed down a suspension as of yet but we will be expecting news from the office within the next few days.” The Bengals will most likely add on to the OSBA’S suspension and have already fined Du $35,000.

Power is clearly a big part of #25 Greg Da Costa's game. Using the entire field, when necessary, also is something the first baseman is striving to accomplish. A review of DaCostas’ hitting chart shows that he is a pull hitter. Just two of the balls he put in play at home last season have been to the left side. “I'm trying to go gap-to-gap. Its nice hitting home runs. It's nice pulling the ball and things like that, but I'd rather be a .360 hitter with 10 [homers] than a .250 hitter with 15. You're going to help your team out a lot more if you hit higher. I'm just trying to be a complete hitter. That's how you become more consistent."

The Bengals are not looking forward to off season negotiations with shortstop #99 Kevin O'Toole. The Club holds an option year on the tail end of a 5 year 17.5 million contract with the option year set to pay O’Toole 3.8 million. O'Toole can guarantee that salary for next year simply by notching 96 more plate appearances this year. His contract stipulated that the option would vest for O’Toole, if he accumulated 200 plate appearances between the 2007-08 seasons. O’Toole had 104 plate appearances last season. Although his power numbers were down last season, the Bengals expect great things for O’Toole this year who’s phenomenal defence and pitching kept him in the starting line-up.

Black vs. Orange
Mar 31, 2008
Posted by Rob Phair

Mississauga Bengals All star Jonathan Menezes is about to find out that what happens in Vegas can’t always stay in Vegas. Court papers released on Thursday morning indicate that Mr. Menezes and another un-identified patron were put in custody of American police after attempting to pass the peace bridge in the back of a limo bus. Jonathan Menezes was released on a $500,000 bail. Team spokesmen for the Bengals indicated that Mr. Menezes is being accused of 1st degree murder. Court proceedings will continue on Tuesday April 1st. When asked about the situation, #42 Roger Du was quoted saying:
"All I have to say is that we stand behind Jon 100%. I haven't talked with him yet but this definitely isn't something Jon would do. Sure he may have a thing for hookers but it's nothing like murder. Everything will come to light eventually and I hope this doesn't affect him, if he can play for us this season."

In an inter-squad exhibition game the Bengals started with a spark. Leading off for the orange team, #21 Ryan Rattos lead off with a solo shot, much to the chagrin of starting pitcher #29 Jeff St Denis. After getting two quick outs on a ground out and fly out, #17 Andrew McDermid smoked a single up the gut and #16 Jeff Routledge extended the lead with a monster shot over the left field wall. The problem that ensued had nothing to do with his swing; it did however have a lot to do with the 5 seconds it took for Routledge to leave the box and possibly the slowest home run trot in the history of the game. The next batter was new acquisition and younger brother of pitcher Jeff St Denis #27 Andy St Denis. The first pitch in the at bat hit Andy right between the numbers, the benches cleared. Coach Rattos then cancelled the game and the whole team ran laps for 2 hours straight.

Finally good news out at Bengals camp the first annual charity golf tournament to be held in Guelph April 25th to 27th is only 12 tickets away from being 100% sold out. For information on how to get tickets or sponsor the event contact the Bengals forum.

Just Bengals Being Bengals 
Mar 11, 2008
Posted by Rob Phair

The theme this week out at Bengals camp might as well be “Just Bengals being Bengals.”  10 year vet Cody Ireland again flirts with the possibility of retirement. "I know I can play but I don't think I want to," a teary Ireland said in a news conference at Q Park. Much like past years Cody Ireland is just not sure if baseball or wrestling is going to be 1 A on his long list of endeavours. Ireland along with being an emotional leader on this Bengals squad also carries a career average of .436 and an ever so impressive OBP of .560. So you know that the Bengals will try to extend the best possible contract and situation to keep such a leader and team player in the organization for the foreseeable future.

In another case of Just Bengals being Bengals, Garrett Nicol, who might as well be known as Garrett “Stat Lover” Nicol. Was comparing his pitches seen per contact made at the cages and claims that it is only second to one other Bengals player. When ask who was first he was quoted as saying “Who cares I’ll be first soon, I should be anyway I tipped that third and fourth pitch last time.” That type of intensity is exactly what the Bengals coaching staff will be looking for from all the players from the beginning of this season right until the end on their hopeful road to the ship.

Roger Du has had to deal with lots of things this off season with the surgery on his shoulder and now his recent break up with supermodel Kate Beckinsale which has taken a turn for the worse. It seems that Miss Beckinsale has been seen wearing a #9 Bengals jersey while shopping in Brooklyn this past weekend. When asked about the incident #9 Kristopher Kibsey repeats “Miss Beckinsale and myself are just friends, I’m just helping her in this trying time in her life.” Bengals representatives stand firm that Du and Kibsey have talked about the situation and there is no problems viewed by either player.

"Bull" Pen Talk
Mar 6, 2008
Posted by Rob Phair

Right off the top we have some bad news out of Bengals land. An unnamed source close to the situation has informed "The Bull Pen" that the relationship between #42 Roger Du (aka Jackie Robinson Jr.) and his girlfriend Miss Kate Beckinsale of 5 months have split. There has been no confirmation from either party's representatives, however our source tells us that there is another Mississauga Bengals player that Miss Beckinsale has spent intimate time with in the past few weeks.

In other news, #1 Andrew Costley has begun his community service hours, stemming from the "Bottling incident" during last season’s trip to Barrie, which left Mr. Costley in jail for the night, All-star ace #12 Jonathan Menezes with a broken pitching arm and left #19 Brandon Hlynsky, #42 Roger Du and #5 Robert Phair in the lion’s den (Dog house) of player/manager #21 Ryan Rattos and player/coach #25 Greg DaCosta.

More trouble out at Bengals camp long time veteran #45 Cody Ireland and new franchise corner stone #8 Jonathan "The Rule" Amendola got into an altercation over a bench pressing competition. The competition which is said to be funded and ran by team fan and ex-major leaguer Pete Rose will be under further investigation in the coming weeks. Jonathan "The Rule" Amendola's training managers, "Rocket" Roger Clemens and Mike Vick will be the first two to be sent to the stand when court begins early next week...