Reds quietly made a bold Sal Stewart decision that says everything about their future

The Cincinnati Reds didn't put Sal Stewart on the trade block this past winter, but that didn't stop other teams from calling. According to ESPN's Alden Gonzalez, a few teams inquired with the Reds about trading for Stewart but were quickly rebuffed. Gonzalez said during Thursday's broadcast that the Reds wouldn't even entertain the idea.

Stewart has the makings of a franchise player for the Reds heading into the future. The 22-year-old made his Major League debut last September and was even part of the team's postseason roster.

In fact, Stewart was one of the few sparks for the Reds' offense during the NL Wild Card Series against the Los Angeles Dodgers. He went 2-for-4 with a walk and four RBI, and after a crushing loss in Game 2, showed maturity beyond his years by taking full responsibility for the team's playoff exit.

Reds fans are glad that Sal Stewart is here to stay

After putting in countless hours in the gym this winter, Stewart arrived in Goodyear, Arizona this spring having lost over 20 pounds during the offseason. Some fans worried that Slim Sal might not have the same pop in his bat that he did last season, but he's been on fire during Cactus League play thus far.

Through six games, Stewart is hitting .429/.529/.929 with a double and two home runs. He's adjusting to playing first base on a full-time basis and is logging reps at second base. Stewart is expected to share playing time with Spencer Steer at the cold corner and will also see some time at the keystone in place of Matt McLain.

Even though he debuted last season, Stewart's rookie status is still intact for the upcoming 2026 season. He's pre-arbitration eligible, shouldn't reach free agency until after the 2031 season, and could be a candidate for a long-term contract extension this spring. Stewart is the perfect player for the Reds to build their franchise around heading into the future.

Reds fans shouldn't be surprised that other teams showed trade interest in trading for Stewart — any GM worth his salt would at least inquire. But the Cincinnati faithful can rest easy now knowing that the Reds' brass views him as one of the key pieces to the organization moving forward.