The 2026 National League Rookie of the Year race already has one of baseball’s most intriguing storylines: a rising hitter versus a breakout starting pitcher.
Two rookies have separated themselves early in the season — Sal Stewart of the Cincinnati Reds and Nolan McLean of the New York Mets. One is delivering impact offense in the middle of the lineup, while the other is bringing power stuff and poise to a major league rotation.
Both players have made strong first impressions, and the battle between an everyday hitter and a starting pitcher could shape this award race all season.
Sal Stewart Has Become an Instant Force for the Reds
Few rookies have looked as polished at the plate as Sal Stewart.
After earning his opportunity with Cincinnati, Stewart has wasted no time showing why he was viewed as one of the organization’s most advanced young hitters. Through April 28, Stewart owns:
- .310 batting average
- 5 home runs
- 11 RBIs
- 1.068 OPS
- 18 hits
Those numbers stand out, but Stewart’s overall presence at the plate may be even more impressive.
He has shown a mature approach, consistently working counts and handling major league pitching with confidence. He does not look overwhelmed by velocity, and he has already flashed the ability to drive the baseball to all fields.
That type of production is exactly what the Reds hoped for. Cincinnati entered the season looking to compete in a tough National League race, and Stewart has quickly become one of the most important bats in the lineup.
For Rookie of the Year voters, everyday production matters. Stewart’s ability to impact games almost nightly gives him an early advantage.
Nolan McLean Has Given the Mets a Rotation Boost
While Stewart is making noise with the bat, Nolan McLean has brought immediate value to the mound for New York.
The hard-throwing right-hander entered the season with growing buzz thanks to his electric arsenal, and he has lived up to it so far. Through his first several starts, McLean has delivered quality innings and swing-and-miss stuff.
Recent outings include:
- April 26 vs Rockies: 5.0 IP, 1 ER, 7 strikeouts
- April 21 vs Twins: 6.2 IP, 3 ER, 10 strikeouts
- April 14 at Dodgers: 7.0 IP, 1 ER, 8 strikeouts
Those performances show why McLean is firmly in the Rookie of the Year conversation.
He features a lively fastball, sharp breaking pitches, and the confidence to attack hitters. Most importantly, he has looked comfortable in high-pressure moments, something many rookie pitchers need time to develop.
The Mets entered 2026 with playoff hopes, and McLean helping stabilize the rotation has been one of the season’s biggest early positives.
Hitter vs Pitcher: The Classic Rookie of the Year Debate
When comparing a hitter and pitcher for Rookie of the Year, voters often face a difficult choice.
Why Sal Stewart Has the Edge
- Plays nearly every day
- Produces visible counting stats like home runs and RBIs
- Impacts games consistently
- Strong average and elite OPS
Why Nolan McLean Is Right There
- Premium value as a starting pitcher
- Strikeout upside
- Can change games every fifth day
- Helps a contender in meaningful innings
Historically, hitters often have an easier path because they are in the lineup daily. But dominant rookie pitchers absolutely can win if their numbers stay elite.
Who Leads the Race Right Now?
As of April 28, Sal Stewart holds the slight lead in the 2026 NL Rookie of the Year race.
The reason is simple: his offensive production has been impossible to ignore. A rookie hitting over .300 with power and an OPS above 1.000 will always draw attention.
Still, McLean is extremely close behind.
If he continues piling up strikeouts and turns in several more dominant starts during May, he could easily jump into first place. Pitchers often gain momentum once innings totals grow and their consistency becomes clearer.
Why This Matters Beyond the Award
This race is not just about trophies.
For Cincinnati, Stewart looks like a potential long-term cornerstone bat. For New York, McLean could become a key rotation piece for years to come.
When rookies contribute immediately, franchises accelerate their timeline. Both teams should be thrilled with what they have seen so far.
Final Prediction
If ballots were submitted today:
- Sal Stewart, Reds
- Nolan McLean, Mets
- The rest of the NL rookie field
But with five months left, this race is only beginning.
Stewart has the early numbers. McLean has the pitcher upside. By summer, this could become one of the best award battles in baseball.
