Reds risk massive backlash after Sal Stewart makes long-term desire clear

The Cincinnati Reds have been gifted the perfect opportunity to lock up one of their top young talents for the foreseeable future, but to date, have done nothing about it. Rookie infielder Sal Stewart is exactly the type of player small-market teams try to sign to long-term extensions, and he's practically begging the Reds to start negotiations.

In a conversation with Cincinnati Enquirer columnist Gordon Wittenmyer, Stewart was asked about his interest in signing a long-term contract with the Reds. His response is sure to make Reds fans smile from ear to ear.

“I know I have a value, and I understand that, but I also understand the value of being comfortable and wanting to lead a franchise," Stewart said. "Cincinnati’s been great to me. I’m definitely open to it.”

Reds need to sign Sal Stewart to a contract extension ASAP

The Reds have just four players under contract beyond the 2026 season. Hunter Greene inked a six-year, $53 million deal with Cincinnati in 2023. Catcher Jose Trevino signed a two-year contract extension before the Reds left Goodyear last spring. Emilio Pagán signed a two-year deal this past winter. And after trading for Gold Glove third baseman Ke'Bryan Hayes last July, Cincinnati has him under contract through the 2029 season.

Aside from Greene — who's going to be sidelined with an eblow injury until sometime in July — the Reds have failed to sign anyone from their young core to a long-term extension. Both Elly De La Cruz and Matt McLain have rebuffed Cincinnati's efforts, and president of baseball operations Nick Krall told Wittenmyer they've yet to find common ground with any of their potential long-term targets.

But if Stewart is willing to go public with those comments about a long-term commitment to the Reds organization, Krall and Co. have no excuse not to make it happen. Stewart has already been embraced by Reds Country and has quickly turned into a fan favorite.

Stewart has been Cincinnati's best hitter since the season began with a .474/.615/.947 slash line through the team's first six games of 2026. Several other organization have begun to lock up their young talent, and it's time for the Reds to follow suit.