Sal Stewart should win Rookie of the Year but 2006 offers stark warning to Reds fans

Sal Stewart of the Cincinnati Reds has built a strong case for NL Rookie of the Year with a .806 OPS and 31 home runs with over 100 RBIs, significantly outpacing his main competition JJ Wetherholt. Stewart's offensive production exceeds what previous rookie sluggers have achieved, though the article cautions that positional value and defensive metrics have historically favored middle infielders in voting, citing the 2006 race when Hanley Ramirez won despite Ryan Zimmerman's superior offensive numbers. Wetherholt's recent wrist injury further improves Stewart's chances, though the article warns that nothing is guaranteed in award voting.

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