Sal Stewart Open to Contract Extension with Reds

Sal Stewart has not only been the Reds' best hitter to start the season, but he's legitimately been one of the best players in all of Major League Baseball.

In 22 plate appearances, the 22-year-old is 9-16 with six walks and five extra-base hits. His nine hits, six walks, and 18 total bases lead the league.

Earlier this week, the Milwaukee Brewers extended their No. 4 prospect, Cooper Pratt, on an eight-year, $50.75 million deal.

If there is anyone on the Reds that it might make sense to extend, it would be guys like Chase Burns or Sal Stewart. Stewart was asked about the possibility of signing an extension.

“I know I have a value, and I understand that,” Stewart told The Enquirer's Gordon Wittenmyer. "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.”

Stewart was drafted by the Reds with the No. 32 pick in the 2022 MLB Draft, the pick they recieved when Nick Castellanos declined their qualifying offer.

He's had nothing, but great things to say about the city and the organization since being called up.

“I’m open to it because they took a chance on me when I was young, and I want to do it for this city,” he said. “This city means a lot to me, and they’ve become my family. But at the same time, that’s not my job. My job’s to go out there and play hard and play to win.”

While he would love it, he also understands he has yet to earn anything.

“Man, let me be honest with you. I’ve played four games,” he added. “I haven’t earned anything in this league. I just want to go out there and earn my stripes every day, and Jesus will pave the way. I firmly believe that. I’m grateful for what I have right now.”

The first baseman appeared on MLB Network before Wednesday's series finale against the Pittsburgh Pirates.

“Man, it’s been great. I really wanted a strong start coming into the season after playing a little bit last year. All the kudos is to my teammates and the coaching staff here.”

You can see the full interview with Stewart on MLB Network below:

Sal Stewart took home NL Player of the Week honors after a scorching week at the plate!

The @Reds rookie joined #MLBCentral to discuss his start to the season and why Manny Machado is "unlike any mentor he's ever had." pic.twitter.com/eHputP57H9
— MLB Network (@MLBNetwork) April 1, 2026

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