Local fans had plenty to celebrate on Friday when Cincinnati Reds infielder Sal Stewart delivered a historic performance at Chicago’s Wrigley Field. Stewart’s fifth‑inning home run pushed his season total to 101 runs batted in, surpassing the long‑standing rookie record set by outfielder Jim Greengrass in 1953.
Record‑breaking night
The milestone came in a 6‑4 victory over the Cubs, a game that highlighted Stewart’s consistent power and clutch hitting all season. With the home run, Stewart not only helped secure the win but also etched his name in Reds history, eclipsing Greengrass’s 100 RBIs, which had stood for more than seven decades.
Season‑long dominance
Stewart has been the Reds’ offensive engine from the start of the 2026 campaign. He leads the team in several key categories, including home runs (28), hits (134), total bases (242), doubles (24) and, of course, RBIs. His balanced skill set—power, contact and speed—has made him a constant threat in the lineup and a fan favorite throughout the Midwest.
Rookie of the Year prospects
With the record now in hand, Stewart has solidified his place among the top candidates for the National League Rookie of the Year award. He joins a select group of Reds who have earned the honor, the most recent being Jonathan India in 2021. Betting markets reflect his standing; Stewart is the favorite on BetMGM, ahead of St. Louis Cardinals infielder JJ Wetherholt, New York Mets outfielder Carson Benge and Mets pitcher Nolan McLean.
What this means for Cincinnati
Stewart’s achievement underscores the bright future of a Reds roster that has struggled to find consistent success in recent years. For a city that lives and breathes baseball, his record provides a rallying point for fans and a reminder that home‑grown talent can thrive on the national stage. Local businesses and community groups have already begun planning celebrations, from watch parties at neighborhood bars to special merchandise at Reds‑themed retailers.
Looking ahead
The Reds will aim to build on this momentum as the season progresses toward the playoff push. Stewart’s record‑setting performance is a clear signal that the team’s young core is ready to compete, and it gives Cincinnati supporters a reason to be optimistic about the remainder of the year.
Original reporting: WLWT Cincinnati — read the source article.
