Reds infielder Sal Stewart won the 2026 National League Rookie of the Year award after a standout season at the plate. He led NL rookies with 32 home runs and 112 RBIs, earning the honor in a decisive vote and securing Cincinnati an additional 2027 draft pick.

By the Numbers
  • Stewart hit .263 with 32 home runs, 112 RBIs, 87 runs scored and 15 stolen bases.
  • He received 20 of 30 first-place votes and 170 points; runner-up Carson Benge earned 7 first-place votes and 107 points.
  • Stewart hit 60% more home runs and drove in 53% more runs than the next-closest NL rookie.
  • He is Cincinnati’s 9th Rookie of the Year winner and the first since Jonathan India in 2021.
Yes, But

Stewart cooled off late, posting a .536 OPS over his final 19 games, but his full-season production and commanding lead over other rookies made the award decision clear.

Bottom Line

Stewart’s immediate impact delivered both a major individual honor and a tangible boost to Cincinnati’s future: an extra pick in the 2027 draft.