Sal Stewart has done more than just give the Reds a bright spot in a season that went sideways. He’s apparently turned himself into the player Hall of Famers can’t stop talking about.
USA Today’s Bob Nightengale said that when he asked several MLB Hall of Famers which player had impressed them most this season, the answer came back “overwhelmingly” as Cincinnati Reds first baseman Sal Stewart. Nightengale noted that Stewart is hitting .272 with 32 homers and 110 RBIs.
That kind of reaction carries some weight, and one anonymous Hall of Fame slugger didn’t hold back.
“What he's doing is incredible. I can't believe when I hear people talking about other guys for the Rookie of the Year award.
He should be unanimous. To drive in that many runs as a rookie is so damn impressive.”
Stewart’s numbers explain the buzz. In 155 games, he has piled up 160 hits, 85 runs scored, 25 doubles, 32 home runs, 110 RBIs, 15 stolen bases, 61 walks, 146 strikeouts, a .269 batting average, and an .809 OPS. He also has 2.3 bWAR.
For a 22-year-old in his first full major league season, that’s a hefty offensive line, especially for a rookie first baseman. The production has been loud enough to put Stewart firmly in the Rookie of the Year conversation, and the Hall of Fame praise only adds to the case.
Even with the Reds headed into an offseason reset after being eliminated from postseason contention, Stewart gave them something to hang onto: a breakout season that looks like the start of something much bigger.
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