Sal Stewart's Path to Major League Security: A Slimmer, Stronger Defender
Goodyear, Arizona -- Sal Stewart's journey to Major League security took an unexpected turn during the National League Wild Card Series against the Dodgers. In Game 2, Stewart, playing first base for the Reds, committed an error that haunted him throughout the offseason. After fielding a grounder in the sixth inning, his bad throw to pitcher Nick Martinez resulted in runners on the corners, leading to a four-run rally and an 8-4 loss to Los Angeles, eliminating Cincinnati in a two-game sweep.
Despite the setback, Stewart remains determined to prove his defensive capabilities. He reflects on the error, stating, "It haunted me the whole offseason. I’m excited to get back out there and prove I can be that defender."
Stewart's rapid rise through the ranks is notable. Just before his promotion to the big leagues on September 1, he had only played two games at first base in Triple-A, learning on the job. Manager Terry Francona acknowledges the challenge, saying, "That’s a big ask. He handled himself fine. He’ll be OK."
General Manager Brad Meador explains the strategy behind playing Stewart in multiple positions in the Minor Leagues, "We’ve tried to avoid that, and that’s why we’ve played guys in multiple positions in the Minor Leagues. [Stewart] shot through the system so fast that we weren’t able to get him first base reps like we probably should have."
Despite the error, Stewart's confidence remains high. He is ranked as the Reds' top prospect and No. 22 overall by MLB Pipeline, and he had a successful September call-up, slashing .255/.293/.545 with five home runs, eight RBIs, and 11 runs scored. Stewart's focus is on winning the first base job, with last year's primary first baseman, Spencer Steer, moving to left field.
Stewart's dedication to his craft is evident in his physical transformation. He won the club's "best shape of his life" contest in December, dropping 26 pounds from his listed 6-foot-1, 224-pound frame. This weight loss has improved his athleticism, as reported by assistant bench coach Mike Napoli, who works with the first basemen. Francona notes, "When you watch him move, that’s what our goal was."
The addition of Eugenio Suárez to the Reds' lineup brings new dynamics. Suárez's versatility as a designated hitter, first baseman, and third baseman means Stewart's positions are up for grabs. With Suárez as the DH and Steer in left field, first base is wide open for Stewart to claim.
The Suárez signing alleviates some pressure on Stewart to be the Reds' middle-of-the-order power threat. Francona highlights Stewart's potential, "He’s an advanced hitter for a young kid. He’s not just going to get singles. He’s going to do some damage."
Stewart's confidence in his abilities is evident in his words, "I know what I bring to the table is up to par at the big league level. I know what I can do. Now it’s going out there and trusting it. ... As long as I maintain the thought process that I belong here, then I’m super excited for the season."
