MLB Insider Shares Grim News On Sal Stewart’s Future With The Cincinnati Reds

Sal Stewart (Image Credits: Imagn)

MLB Insider Shares Grim News On Sal Stewart’s Future With The Cincinnati Reds

Originally posted on Total Pro Sports | By Heena Singh | Last updated May 6, 2026 2:01 PM ET

The Cincinnati Reds might’ve landed a game-changer. Sal Stewart has stepped in and changed expectations. At just 22, he’s producing, energizing the lineup, and giving this offense real bite alongside Elly De La Cruz. Cincinnati didn’t enter 2026 with hype, but now, they’re hanging around the race at 20-15 and forcing teams to pay attention.

That’s what makes this situation tricky. When a young star pops early, the next move usually comes fast: lock him up, secure the future, build around him. Stewart’s numbers back the urgency. A .252/.338/.504 slash line, nine homers, and speed on the bases through 35 games.

MLB insider Ken Rosenthal reported on “Foul Territory” that a deal isn’t close and finances are the roadblock.

“They’re not in a position right now where they feel comfortable extending Sal Stewart.”

The Reds are in a different financial place from when they were offering Kyle Schwarber and Elly De La Cruz contracts, says @Ken_Rosenthal.

"They're not in a position right now where they feel comfortable extending Sal Stewart." pic.twitter.com/nSMa7JLqpa
— Foul Territory (@FoulTerritoryTV) May 5, 2026

Rosenthal tied it to Cincinnati’s shifting money situation after a TV deal setback, noting the front office wants clarity there first. The long-term intent is still real, but timing isn’t. For now, the breakout rookie keeps producing, while his contract future stays on hold.

Sal Stewart’s Historic Start Earns Rookie of the Month Honors

The Cincinnati Reds have a breakout star, and Stewart just made it official. The 22-year-old snagged NL Rookie of the Month for March/April on May 4, and it wasn’t even close. Less than 50 games in, and he’s already flirting with historic company.

Through 31 games, Stewart slashed .281 with nine homers and 29 RBI. The power showed up early, but the approach stands out more. He’s walking, limiting strikeouts, and driving the ball everywhere. That 29 RBI mark is now a new franchise record before May.

Congrats to Sal Stewart on being named the NL Rookie of the Month‼️ pic.twitter.com/PYOU7yd2at
— Cincinnati Reds (@Reds) May 4, 2026

Only Albert Pujols, José Abreu, and Pete Alonso started like this, and all won Rookie of the Year. Cincinnati is 20-14, and with Terry Francona trusting him in the cleanup spot, Sal Stewart is pretty much driving the season.

This article first appeared on Total Pro Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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