Here’s a bold statement: Major League Baseball executives might be sleeping on one of the most exciting young talents in the game. Cincinnati Reds fans are scratching their heads after a recent MLB.com poll seemingly overlooked the electrifying potential of Sal Stewart. But here’s where it gets controversial: while top execs predict a tight race for the 2026 Rookie of the Year Awards, Stewart’s name barely cracks the top contenders—despite his jaw-dropping debut in 2025. Is this a case of collective amnesia, or are the experts missing something Reds fans already know?
The MLB offseason has been a slow burn, thanks to holiday breaks and Scott Boras’s negotiating prowess. Yet, even behind the veil of anonymity, executives and analysts love to weigh in on the future stars of the game. MLB.com recently surveyed front-office leaders across the league, posing a simple question: Who will take home the AL and NL Rookie of the Year Awards in 2026? The American League race, according to these insiders, is a two-horse battle between Detroit Tigers shortstop Kevin McGonigle and Toronto Blue Jays pitcher Trey Yesavage. But the National League? That’s a three-way toss-up.
St. Louis Cardinals infielder JJ Wetherholt, New York Mets starter Nolan McLean, and Pittsburgh Pirates shortstop prospect Konnor Griffin each secured at least 16% of the vote, with Wetherholt leading the pack at 30.2%. And this is the part most people miss: Sal Stewart, the Reds’ powerhouse slugger, barely registered with 4.7% of the vote—tied with Philadelphia Phillies prospect Justin Crawford and trailing behind Pirates’ Bubba Chandler (7%). Did MLB execs forget Stewart’s explosive 18-game stint in 2025, or are they underestimating his potential?
Let’s rewind. After relentless calls from Reds fans to promote their top prospect, Cincinnati finally called up Stewart in September 2025. He had already dominated Double-A and Triple-A, leaving little doubt about his minor league readiness. In his brief debut, Stewart delivered 14 base hits, including six for extra bases, slashing .255/.293/.545 with a 121 OPS+ and a 124 wRC+. These aren’t just numbers—they’re a statement. While slightly below his minor league stats, they hint at the power surge fans witnessed in 2025. For context, Stewart slugged .524 with a 152 wRC+ across 118 minor league games last season. That’s not a fluke; that’s a future star in the making.
Here’s the kicker: Stewart’s position remains undefined, but Reds manager Terry Francona is no stranger to maximizing young talent. Most experts predict Stewart will break camp with the Reds this spring, and Francona will undoubtedly find a way to unleash his power bat. Reds fans already know what Stewart brings to the table, and his offseason dedication suggests he’s poised for a breakout 2026. But here’s the real question: Are MLB execs underestimating Stewart, or are they right to temper expectations? Let’s spark some debate—do you think Stewart has what it takes to challenge for Rookie of the Year, or is the hype overblown? Sound off in the comments!
