McGonigle and Stewart Win 2026 Rookie of the Year Awards

The Baseball Writers’ Association of America named Detroit Tigers infielder Kevin McGonigle the American League’s 2026 Rookie of the Year and Cincinnati Reds first baseman Sal Stewart the National League’s winner. McGonigle received 28 of 30 first-place votes and 204 points; Stewart received 20 first-place votes and 170 points.

McGonigle, 21 for most of the season, hit .278 with 18 home runs, 72 RBIs, 28 doubles and 12 stolen bases, according to the reported season statistics. He split time between third base and shortstop and appeared in 156 games. He also made the All-Star team. The award was his first, and he became the first Tigers player to win since pitcher Michael Fulmer in 2016.

Cleveland Guardians pitcher Parker Messick finished second in the AL voting with 122 points and the other two first-place votes. Boston Red Sox pitcher Payton Tolle was third with 54 points. Messick posted a 2.56 ERA and 193 strikeouts, while Tolle had a 3.03 ERA and 171 strikeouts.

Stewart played in all 162 games for Cincinnati and hit .263 with 32 home runs and 112 RBIs, the third-highest total in the majors. He also recorded 15 stolen bases. His 20 first-place votes put him ahead of New York...