Cuban-American slugger Sal Stewart has emerged as one of the brightest young hitters in the majors during his rookie campaign. The 22-year-old has become a key piece of the Cincinnati lineup, combining power, run production, and a mature approach at the plate that has already placed him among the league’s top run producers.
Through the first week of July, Stewart is batting .257 with 17 home runs, 60 RBIs, and an .813 OPS. His ability to drive in runs has been especially impressive, as he ranks among the National League leaders in RBIs despite being a rookie. The native of Miami has also swiped 10 bases and is in route to a possible 20/20 season.
Stewart leads all rookies in the National League in homeruns, runs batted in and stolen bases. The infielder is also second amongst all rookies in the National League in OPS and hits. His slash line of .257/.342/.471/.813 are very impressive and could be a determining factor in the race for the Rookie of the Year in the senior circuit.
Stewart has also shown a knack for delivering in big moments. He has recorded multiple games with at least five RBIs (April 15th and 25th), this season, including a six-RBI performance against the Yankees on June 20th and a walk-off extra-inning homer against the Padres on June 9th. Yesterday, he launched his 17th home run of the season in Cincinnati’s 7-2 victory over Milwaukee.
What has stood out most is his all-around offensive profile. Stewart has paired above-average power with solid plate discipline and consistent hard contact, making him one of the frontrunners in the National League Rookie of the Year race while establishing himself as a cornerstone of the Reds’ future.
Stewart’s 2026 Season Stats:
AB: 327
H: 84
AVG: .257
2B: 19
HR: 17
RBI: 60
OBP: .342
SLG: .471
OPS: .813