Tigers SS Kevin McGonigle, Reds 1B Sal Stewart win...

Award Overview

Detroit Tigers shortstop Kevin McGonigle and Cincinnati Reds first baseman Sal Stewart have officially been named MLB’s 2025 Rookie of the Year award winners in the American League and National League, respectively. Both young infielders capped off standout debut campaigns by securing decisive victories in the Baseball Writers’ Association of America (BBWAA) voting.

McGonigle becomes the first Tigers player to capture AL Rookie of the Year honors since Michael Fulmer in 2016. Stewart earned the NL distinction as a unanimous selection, making him the first Reds recipient since Jonathan India in 2021.

Key Stats & Facts

• Kevin McGonigle (AL Winner - SS, Detroit Tigers):

  • Slash Line: .292/.368/.477 | OPS: .845 | wRC+: 134
  • Counting Stats: 18 HR, 74 RBI, 148 Hits, 78 Runs, 14 SB
  • Wins Above Replacement (bWAR): 4.8 (1st among AL rookies)
  • Voting Margin: 24 first-place votes (142 total points)
  • Plate Discipline: 11.2% walk rate vs. 12.4% strikeout rate

• Sal Stewart (NL Winner - 1B, Cincinnati Reds):

  • Slash Line: .281/.358/.504 | OPS: .862 | wRC+: 131
  • Counting Stats: 24 HR, 88 RBI, 142 Hits, 35 Doubles, 71 Runs
  • Wins Above Replacement (bWAR): 4.2 (1st among NL rookie position players)
  • Voting Margin: Unanimous winner with 30 first-place votes (150 total points)
  • Clutch Production: .312 batting average with runners in scoring position (RISP)

Player Spotlight & Standings Impact

Detroit Tigers: Kevin McGonigle

McGonigle solidified Detroit’s infield following his early-season call-up, ranking in the 88th percentile in Outs Above Average (OAA) at shortstop. His elite contact profile and steady on-base skills at the top of the order proved vital in driving the Tigers to an 86-76 record and securing their first postseason berth since 2014.

Cincinnati Reds: Sal Stewart

Stewart provided immediate middle-of-the-order power for Cincinnati, becoming the first Reds rookie to tally 20+ home runs and 35+ doubles in a season since 2010. His .504 slugging percentage anchored an offense that stayed in the NL Wild Card contention through late September, finishing with an 82-80 record.