Cincinnati Reds Rookie Off to Hot Start in 2026
This promising infielder is already swinging a hot bat, electrifying the Reds' offense and hinting at future stardom.
The Cincinnati Reds have gotten off to a hot start in 2026, as they were victorious in their first series of the season against the Boston Red Sox, taking two games out of three. Cincinnati has vastly improved their offense from last season, especially after signing slugger Eugenio Suarez to a one year deal. However, Cincinnati has a rookie who is arguably their hottest hitter so far this season.
22 year old rookie infielder Sal Stewart is one of Cincinnati's top prospects, and was added to the teams opening day roster following a dominant spring training campaign. We're three games into the new season, and Stewart is looking like a legitimate rookie of the year candidate and future all-star. Cincinnati Reds Infielder Sal Stewart (27) | Ā© Sam Greene/The Enquirer / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images Stewart was drafted 32nd overall in the 2021 MLB Draft out of Westminister Christian High School in Florida.
Fast forward five years, and Stewart is Cincinnati's number one overall prospect heading into the 2026 regular season. Stewart's best ability is his bat, as he possesses a 60 grade hit tool and 55 grade power, and so far in 2026 both tools are apparent. In spring training, Stewart dominated as he posted a .
327/. 450/. 592 slash-line in 60 plate appearances with seven extra base hits (three home-runs) and eight RBI's.