Cincinnati Reds rookie Sal Stewart was struck by a line drive during the team's Opening Day loss to the Red Sox.
Sal Stewart was one of the few bright spots during the Cincinnati Reds Opening Day loss to the Boston Red Sox, a game in which the club was held scoreless. The 22-year-old rookie delivered an impressive season debut, going 3-for-4 at the plate against left-handed ace Garrett Crochet, showing exactly why the organization has so much confidence in him.
However, things took a concerning turn in the top of the fifth inning. Stewart was struck on the left wrist by a line drive off the bat of Roman Anthony, immediately showing discomfort. Despite the scare, he remained in the game and finished the contest, which was an encouraging sign.
Before Saturday’s matchup, manager Terry Francona provided an update when speaking with reporters, noting that Stewart’s wrist was sore but that he avoided any structural damage (h/t Charlie Goldsmith of FOX19).
That set the stage for the Reds next decision. Ahead of Saturday’s game against the Red Sox, Francona placed Stewart back into the lineup hitting fourth despite suffering the injury just two days ago, indicating the soreness should eventually subside.
The move reinforces just how important Stewart is to Cincinnati’s plans this season. Even as a rookie entering his first full MLB campaign after a brief stint in the big leagues last year, he has already carved out a significant role in the lineup. After a dominant spring training, Stewart earned the cleanup spot in Francona’s order, notably hitting ahead of veteran Eugenio Suarez, who was Cincinnati's big free agent acquisition this offseason.
That decision alone speaks volumes about the confidence the Reds have in Stewart. The former first‑round pick in the 2022 MLB Draft is expected to serve as the team’s primary first baseman and a key offensive contributor moving forward.
His early performance only adds to the optimism. Delivering three hits on Opening Day against one of MLB's best pitchers is no small feat, and it suggests Stewart may be ready to translate his spring success into the regular season.
Still, the injury is something the Reds will need to monitor closely. Wrist issues can linger, and with Stewart playing such a central role, the team will want to ensure he remains healthy over the long haul.
If Cincinnati hopes to return to the playoffs for a second straight year, Stewart’s development will be crucial. Saturday’s decision to keep him in the lineup shows the Reds are confident he can continue to produce even while playing through some early‑season soreness.