Reds 22-Year-Old Slugger Already Turning Heads as 2026's Breakout Star

Cincinnati's Sal Stewart could be the team's first baseman of the future after a big spring training.

Published on Mar. 2, 2026

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The Cincinnati Reds have a potential breakout star on their hands in 22-year-old first baseman Sal Stewart. Stewart impressed in limited action with the Reds last season and has continued to turn heads this spring, showcasing his power, plate discipline, and versatility. Despite the presence of veteran Spencer Steer at first base, the Reds seem poised to give Stewart the majority of reps at the position as he appears to be the team's long-term solution.

Why it matters

The Reds are looking to bounce back after a disappointing 2025 season, and the emergence of a young, impact bat like Sal Stewart could be a key part of their resurgence. Stewart's combination of power, plate discipline, and defensive versatility make him an exciting prospect who could be a cornerstone for the Reds for years to come.

The details

Stewart, a 22-year-old rookie, impressed in limited action with the Reds last season, hitting 25 home runs across Double-A, Triple-A, and the majors. This spring, he has continued to showcase his power, already hitting multiple balls over 100 mph. While the Reds have a Gold Glove finalist in Spencer Steer at first base, analysts believe Stewart should get the majority of reps at the position as he is seen as the team's long-term solution. Stewart is also versatile enough to play third base and second base, providing the Reds with additional lineup flexibility.

  • Stewart had a big impact on the Reds in his limited action with the team last season.
  • Stewart has been impressive this spring, already clubbing multiple batted balls well over 100 miles per hour.

The players

Sal Stewart

A 22-year-old rookie first baseman for the Cincinnati Reds who impressed in limited action last season and has continued to turn heads this spring training with his power, plate discipline, and defensive versatility.

Spencer Steer

A 28-year-old Gold Glove finalist at first base for the Cincinnati Reds, but analysts believe the younger Stewart should get the majority of reps at the position as he is seen as the team's long-term solution.

Ke'Bryan Hayes

The Cincinnati Reds' third baseman who has struggled with back problems over the last few years, potentially opening the door for Stewart to see time at the position as well.

Keith Law

An analyst for The Athletic who recently suggested that Stewart could have a huge impact on the Reds during his rookie campaign this year.

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What they’re saying

“Yes, the Reds have Gold Glove finalist first baseman in Spencer Steer, but Steer is 28 and was barely above replacement level last year. He is not the future, while Stewart is, and the young player who could be their first baseman for the next six years should get the majority of reps over there.”

— Keith Law, Analyst (The Athletic)

What’s next

The Reds will have to decide how to split playing time between Steer and Stewart at first base, with analysts suggesting Stewart should get the majority of reps as the team's long-term solution at the position.

The takeaway

The emergence of 22-year-old Sal Stewart as a potential breakout star could be a key part of the Cincinnati Reds' resurgence in 2026. Stewart's combination of power, plate discipline, and defensive versatility make him an exciting prospect who could anchor the Reds' lineup for years to come.