Sal Stewart, alliteration — and a Cincinnati Reds perfect fit Sal Stewart’s name seems tailor-made for baseball, a sport where alliteration often feels like a lucky charm. The Cincinnati Reds’ new corner infielder, known for his power-hitting potential, has already made an impression with his five home runs in a limited sample during his MLB debut last season. While his performance on the field is impressive, it’s his name that has sparked conversations about how perfectly it fits the game. The Reds, who made a strong push to secure a playoff spot last season, have been actively seeking power hitters to bolster their lineup. Despite acquiring Kyle Schwarber in a free-agent move, the team’s power output remained a concern. Eugenio Suarez’s signing in free agency added depth to their slugging capabilities, but Stewart’s arrival through the organization’s system has introduced a new dynamic. Stewart’s journey to the majors has been marked by high expectations. As a prospect, he was heralded for his potential as a home run hitter, and his arrival in Cincinnati has only reinforced that narrative. His name, with its alliterative flair, has become a talking point among fans and analysts alike. In a sport where names often carry weight, Stewart’s moniker feels like a fitting tribute to his role as a power threat. While the Reds’ decision to sign Stewart isn’t solely based on his name, it’s hard to ignore the symbolism. The team’s pursuit of players with both talent and a strong connection to the game’s culture has paid off, and Stewart’s presence adds a layer of intrigue. His name, after all, is almost a guarantee of a memorable career in baseball. As the Reds look to build on their recent success, Stewart’s potential to deliver on the field will be the true test.#mlb #cincinnati_reds #eugenio_suarez #kyle_schwarber #sal_stewart
Sal Stewart, the Cincinnati Reds' young first baseman, is emerging as a top fantasy baseball prospect despite his current average draft position (ADP) of 196th, which many experts believe undervalues his potential. FantasyPros analysts argue Stewart should be selected in the top 150 picks, citing his advanced hitting skills and the Reds' plans to feature him in key lineup spots. Stewart's recent performance in Spring Training has positioned him as a potential cleanup hitter for the Reds, a role that could maximize his power-hitting abilities. Reds manager Terry Francona has consistently praised Stewart's development, calling him one of the most advanced young hitters he has encountered. Francona's confidence was reinforced during the 2025 season when Stewart was called up in September, hitting five home runs in a short span and earning a spot on the postseason roster. Local Cincinnati reporter Charlie Goldsmith highlighted Stewart's progress on social media, noting his seamless transition to first base and his ability to hit for power while showcasing strong base-running skills. "He's using the entire field and has had some ticker tape homers," Goldsmith wrote, emphasizing Stewart's consistency and adaptability. While Stewart's multi-position eligibility (first base/second base) adds flexibility for fantasy managers, his primary value lies in his power potential. With Francona's support and a strong spring training showing, Stewart is positioned to exceed expectations in 2026. Fantasy players who draft him late in the draft may find themselves with a high-impact asset capable of contributing significantly in power categories. The Reds' decision to prioritize Stewart in their lineup underscores his importance to the team's future.#2025_season #cincinnati_reds #terry_francona #sal_stewart #charlie_goldsmith
Reds Broadcaster Has Strong Reaction to What Sal Stewart Is Doing at the Plate Jeff Brantley, the Reds' announcer known as The Cowboy, praised Sal Stewart's performance on the Power Stacks Podcast, highlighting the rookie's impact on the team. Brantley expressed admiration for Stewart's approach at the plate, emphasizing the intensity and determination he brings to each at-bat. "He would really piss me off if I was a pitcher," Brantley said. "I'll be honest with you. He would. He would really make me mad. And that is the best compliment that I could give that kid because he fights for it, he wants it, his energy is so high." Brantley further noted Stewart's ability to adapt his hitting approach in different game situations. "The thing that I love about that kid that nobody notices yet, but they will, the pitchers will, he hits different with runners in scoring position, he hits different late in the ballgame with nobody on and you need a home run, and he hits different when he has a runner at third and he hits different when he has a runner at third and two outs when he's got to get a hit. And when you can change your swing like that and still be really good, that would piss me off." Stewart's spring training performance showcased his potential, as he slashed .326/.456/.609 with seven extra-base hits in 19 games. He also stole four bases, demonstrating his all-around value to the team. Cincinnati Reds manager Terry Francona has also expressed confidence in Stewart's abilities, considering his potential role in the lineup. Earlier this week, Francona discussed the possibility of batting Stewart fourth in the lineup, behind Elly De La Cruz, with Eugenio Suarez batting fifth.#cincinnati_reds #terry_francona #jeff_brantley #sal_stewart #goodyear_ballpark
