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
Red Sox vs. Reds Opening Day Matchup: A Clash of Past and Present The Boston Red Sox will open the 2026 MLB season with a matchup against the Cincinnati Reds, marking a significant moment for the team as they face a familiar figure from their history. Former Red Sox manager Terry Francona, now with the Reds, will be tasked with overcoming the challenges posed by the team’s new ace, Garrett Crochet. Crochet, who made his mark in his first season with Boston by posting an 18-5 record, a 2.59 ERA, and 255 strikeouts, is set to start his second consecutive Opening Day game for the Red Sox. The game, scheduled for Thursday, March 26, at Fenway Park, will feature a high-stakes showdown between Crochet and the Reds’ lineup, led by All-Star shortstop Elly De La Cruz. Crochet’s ability to dominate with his triple-digit fastball and devastating cutter will be tested against a Cincinnati team that has its own star power. The Red Sox’s lineup includes Roman Anthony, who emerged as a key player during the 2025 World Baseball Classic, and Trevor Story, Jarren Duren, and Willson Contreras, the latter of whom was acquired in a trade during the offseason. Francona, who ended Boston’s 86-year championship drought in 2004, brings a deep understanding of the Red Sox organization to his new role with the Reds. His challenge will be to adapt his strategies to counter Crochet’s dominance, a task that could shape the early dynamics of the game. The Reds’ lineup, bolstered by De La Cruz’s offensive prowess, presents a formidable test for the Red Sox’s young rotation. The game will be broadcast locally on NESN, with streaming options available through NESN 360 and Fubo. Fans can expect a competitive start as both teams aim to set the tone for their 2026 campaigns.#boston_red_sox #cincinnati_reds #garrett_crochet #terry_francona #elly_de_la_cruz
Red Sox-Reds Lineups, Preview and Notes for Opening Day The Boston Red Sox will open the 2026 season on the road against the Cincinnati Reds in a three-game series starting on Thursday. The matchup kicks off at 4:10 p.m. Eastern Time, with the game broadcast on NESN. The Red Sox will rely on ace left-handed pitcher Garrett Crochet to start the season for the second consecutive year, while the Reds will turn to lefthander Andrew Abbott, a first-time All-Star in 2025, to take the mound. Crochet, who led the American League with 255 strikeouts in 2025 and finished second in Cy Young voting, struggled during spring training with a 7.36 ERA over four starts. Despite the rough start, the 28-year-old pitcher remains confident, citing his previous experience with a similar situation. “Last year, good spring, bad first start,” he said. “This year, bad spring. Nothing changes for me.” Crochet’s performance in 2025, including an 18-5 record and a 2.59 ERA, has positioned him as a key asset for the Red Sox, though he acknowledged the challenge of facing teams that may adjust their game plans based on his success. The Reds, led by manager Terry Francona, will face a different challenge as they attempt to rebuild their roster after a third-place finish in the division and an early exit in the playoffs. Francona, who previously managed the Red Sox to World Series titles in 2004 and 2007, emphasized a shift in mindset for the 2026 season. “I’ve told our players — it’s time,” Francona said. “Are we younger than some other teams? Yeah. That doesn’t mean we can’t go toe-to-toe.” The Reds’ lineup will include right-handed hitters to counter Crochet’s left-handed delivery, though speedster TJ Friedl is expected to lead off. For the Red Sox, the Opening Day lineup features a mix of veteran and young talent.#opening_day #boston_red_sox #cincinnati_reds #garrett_crochet #terry_francona
