Why Reds' Sal Stewart contract update is concerning news for fans

The Cincinnati Reds have seen their division rivals recently make long-term investments into their young stars, with the Pittsburgh Pirates extending Konnor Griffin for nine years, and Pete Crow-Armstrong and the Chicago Cubs also in agreement on a deal.

After such moves, and the Detroit Tigers' signing of Kevin McGonigle for $150 million, it wouldn't be a surprise if the Reds followed suit with Sal Stewart, their own rookie breakout star.

However, according to Ken Rosenthal of The Athletic, the Reds haven't had talks with Stewart on a long-term deal, and the update overall doesn't bode well for a long-term deal either.

Reds aren't in extension talks with Sal Stewart

"No extension in works for Reds' Stewart," Rosenthal writes. "... And with the lingering uncertainty over future revenues, the Reds have yet to even make a formal offer to Stewart, according to people briefed on the matter."

This might be the worst message the Reds fanbase could receive regarding their superstar rookie's possible future with the team.

The Reds do still have Stewart under club control for the next six years, but this update is some troubling news for his long-term viability on the Reds roster.

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Unless the financial situation of the franchise changes for the better, it looks likely that the Reds will lose Stewart in the future.

Not only are the Reds not in extension talks with Stewart despite plenty of other teams investing in their young stars early, but the Reds might not be in a position to make such an investment.

Stewart has a .252 batting average with nine homers and an .842 OPS this season with a 129 OPS+. He's the kind of player the Reds should look to extend, but this update highlights how such an extension isn't likely right now.

This is a worrisome update on Stewart, as the Reds might not be able to sign their young infielder to a long-term deal despite being well worth the investment.

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