Reds Exploring Long-Term Deal for Rising Star Sal Stewart

Contract extension could keep young slugger in Cincinnati for 8 years

Apr. 4, 2026 at 1:50pm

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Cincinnati Reds first baseman Sal Stewart, 24, has emerged as one of the top young players in baseball with a torrid start to the 2026 season. The Reds are now in talks with Stewart about a potential 8-year, $125 million contract extension that would keep him in Cincinnati through the 2034 season.

Why it matters

Signing Stewart to a long-term deal would be a major coup for the small-market Reds, locking up one of their best young talents before he hits free agency. At just 24 years old, Stewart has star potential and could be a cornerstone for the Reds for years to come.

The details

Stewart is off to a blistering start in 2026, batting .391 with 3 home runs and 7 walks through the Reds' first 7 games. The proposed 8-year, $125 million extension would buy out Stewart's remaining pre-arbitration and arbitration years, as well as 3 years of free agency. The deal is modeled after the 8-year, $130 million extension signed by Red Sox slugger Roman Anthony.

  • Stewart recently told local media he is 'open' to a contract extension with the Reds.

The players

Sal Stewart

A 24-year-old first baseman for the Cincinnati Reds who has emerged as one of the top young players in baseball.

Terry Francona

The 77-year-old manager of the Cincinnati Reds.

Brock Burke

A pitcher for the Cincinnati Reds.

Vladimir Guerrero Jr.

A first baseman who recently signed a $500 million contract, setting the market for top young sluggers.

Roman Anthony

A Boston Red Sox slugger who signed an 8-year, $130 million contract extension, providing a comparable deal for the Reds and Stewart.

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What they’re saying

“I know I have a value, and I understand that, but I also understand the value of being comfortable and wanting to lead a franchise. Cincinnati's been great to me. I'm definitely open to it.”

— Sal Stewart

What’s next

The Reds and Stewart's representatives will continue negotiations on a potential long-term extension, with the goal of reaching a deal before the start of the 2026 season.

The takeaway

Locking up a young star like Sal Stewart long-term would be a major win for the small-market Reds, ensuring they can build around one of the game's rising talents for years to come. If the two sides can agree on a fair contract, it could be a win-win for both the player and the franchise.