CINCINNATI — Cincinnati Reds rookie Sal Stewart continues to collect postseason honors following an outstanding first full season in the majors. On Wednesday, Stewart was named the National League Outstanding Rookie in the 2026 Players Choice Awards, giving him his second major rookie award this month.
Unlike the traditional Rookie of the Year award voted on by baseball writers, the Players Choice Awards are determined entirely by active major-league players. Stewart received the honor over fellow finalists TJ Rumfield of the Colorado Rockies and JJ Wetherholt of the St. Louis Cardinals.
The recognition follows a remarkable season for the 22-year-old, who appeared in all 162 games for Cincinnati and earned his first National League All-Star selection. Stewart hit .263 with 32 home runs, 87 runs scored, 15 stolen bases, and a .787 OPS while establishing himself as one of the Reds' most productive hitters.
His ability to drive in runs was impressive for a rookie, with Stewart finishing among the National League leaders in RBIs. He also showed his versatility by playing first base, second base, third base, and designated hitter throughout the season.
Wednesday's announcement comes just over a week after Stewart was named The Sporting News National League Rookie of the Year. Both awards recognize his outstanding rookie campaign, with the Players Choice honor carrying particular meaning because it comes directly from fellow major-league players.
The Reds now await the Baseball Writers' Association of America's National League Rookie of the Year announcement, scheduled for November 9. Stewart's latest recognition adds another accomplishment to his impressive first full season, although the BBWAA voting is separate and was completed before the postseason.
For Cincinnati, Stewart's emergence has been one of the brightest developments of the season. With 32 home runs in his first full year, he has established himself as an important part of the Reds' lineup heading into 2027.
