Sal Stewart named Reds' ninth Rookie of the Year after strong 2026 season

Sal Stewart was named the Cincinnati Reds' ninth Rookie of the Year on November 9, beating out competitors JJ Wetherholt and Carson Benge, according to Yahoo Sports.

Stewart finished the 2026 season as an All-Star first baseman, hitting 32 home runs and driving in 112 runs. He is the fifth Reds player to win Rookie of the Year during an All-Star season, joining players like Johnny Bench and Frank Robinson.

The Reds' optimism for the 2027 season is bolstered by Stewart's performance, along with that of starting pitcher Chase Burns, who won 15 games with a 2.65 ERA. Both were All-Stars in 2026 and represent a promising young core for the team.

Stewart's combination of durability, competitiveness, and hard-hitting ability has made it harder for the Reds to consider rebuilding or trading key young players, as noted by Yahoo Sports.

Photos from the 2026 season show Stewart actively contributing in games, including celebrating at second base and making defensive plays against the Boston Red Sox.

The Reds' management and fans are looking ahead to 2027 with optimism based on the strong rookie campaign from Stewart and the development of other young talent on the roster.