Kirk Herbstreit unloads on Reds during 'Pat McAfee Show' appearance

Kirk Herbstreit, a lifelong Cincinnati Reds fan hailing from Centerville, Ohio, voiced his frustration during an appearance on ESPN's Pat McAfee Show on August 27. Herbstreit, who has attended every Reds baseball game throughout his life, lamented the team's underperformance and lack of competitive spirit over the past decade. He expressed his disappointment, stating that the organization has "beaten the competitive fire out of me."

Herbstreit pointed to the empty seats at home games, noting that he is not alone in his dissatisfaction. He recalled the glory days of Reds baseball, describing it as one of the proudest professional organizations in sports. However, he lamented that those days seem to be a distant memory.

Herbstreit made similar criticisms during a July appearance on McAfee's show, expressing his difficulty in supporting the Reds. He mentioned that the team's season concluded in late April, and he is eager for the NFL season to begin. Herbstreit described Reds baseball as "a disaster" and lamented the lack of progress over the past 13 years, which he believes has negatively impacted the summer for fans.

In October 2025, during the Bengals' thrilling NFL Week 7 victory against the Pittsburgh Steelers at Paycor Stadium, Herbstreit discussed the mindset of Cincinnati sports fans in close games. His remarks on the Pat McAfee Show shed light on the challenges faced by Reds fans who remain loyal despite the organization's struggles.