Cincinnati Reds first baseman Sal Stewart is having a breakout season, but as his profile continues to rise across Major League Baseball, the 22-year-old says his greatest priority has nothing to do with statistics or awards.

For Stewart, it’s about glorifying Jesus Christ.

“Jesus blessed me. I’m 22, playing at Yankee Stadium. My family is in the stands. I mean, Jesus is the greatest,” Stewart said while reflecting on the opportunity to play on one of baseball’s biggest stages.

Nothing but humility from Sal Stewart after collecting 6 RBI at Yankee Stadium.

“How grateful am I? Jesus blessed me, I’m 22, man, playing at Yankee Stadium. My family is in the stands, man, Jesus is the greatest.”

? Reds TV @WDTN pic.twitter.com/pF1IyhUoDk

— Kayler Smith – WDTN (@KaylerSmithTV) June 20, 2026

Stewart’s performance has given him plenty to celebrate. He ranks fourth in MLB with 70 RBIs and was one of four rookies invited to the MLB All-Star Game. Yet throughout his rapid rise, Stewart has repeatedly redirected attention toward his Christian faith.

After a multi-home run performance earlier this season, Stewart told MLB Network that his goals have changed since he was a young baseball player dreaming about reaching the majors.

“Jesus Christ, He’s my Lord and Savior,” Stewart said in April. “He’s changed my life so much.”

“When I was younger, I always said [that] trying to get to the big leagues was always my dream,” he continued. “But my dream now is just to glorify His name. Without Him, I’m nothing, and I can’t do this. He gives me all the strength to do this.”

Stewart has been open about his faith since before reaching the majors. After the Reds selected him in the first round of the 2022 MLB Draft, he shared a video of the emotional moment on Instagram and began his message by thanking God.

“I have to start off by thanking my lord and savior, Jesus Christ; without Him, nothing is possible in my life!” Stewart wrote.

He went on to thank the coaches, teammates, friends and extended family who supported his baseball journey before offering a special message to his immediate family for the sacrifices they made along the way.

“To the Reds community, you are getting my all,” Stewart added. “I promise to give everything I have and push to help my team win in any way I can!”

Three years later, Stewart is delivering on that promise while emerging as one of baseball’s brightest young players. And whether he’s celebrating a home run, playing at Yankee Stadium or reaching another career milestone, Stewart continues to make one thing clear: his success on the field comes second to his desire to glorify Christ.