With Connor Joe outrighted and the 40-man at 39, the Reds are likely to add top prospect Sal Stewart at roster expansion. Stewart’s .315/.394/.629 slash line (1.023 OPS) and 25 extra-base hits in 38 Triple-A games point to an immediate offensive lift. Betting angle: expect shortened run-line and moneyline odds in his starts and heavier action on Stewart player props (hits/RBIs) after a call-up.
Cincinnati Reds outright Connor Joe, 40-man roster sits at 39
The Reds outrighted outfielder Connor Joe to Triple-A Louisville on Sunday, dropping the club’s 40-man roster to 39 players. With MLB rosters set to expand on September 1 and playoff eligibility tied to being on the 40-man that day, Cincinnati now has a clear window to add reinforcements.
Sal Stewart emerges as the frontrunner for a September call-up
Top prospect Sal Stewart looks poised to fill the vacancy. Stewart has dominated Triple-A Louisville, hitting .315/.394/.629 with 25 extra-base hits in 38 games — a 1.023 OPS that signals both on-base ability and power. The timing aligns perfectly for a September promotion once the Reds finalize the 40-man.
Stewart captured the moment emotionally: "Oh man, it means everything to me. I’ve been working my whole life for this, and it’s right in front of me. I see a lot of playoff appearances in the future, and I know what I can bring to the table. I am confident in what I do and who I am, and when that time comes, I’ll be ready to go out and play to win."
What the move means for roster construction and playoff eligibility
Bringing Stewart onto the 40-man before September 1 would preserve his postseason eligibility and give the Reds a young middle-of-the-order bat to boost depth. Even if the club waits, expect additional transactions as Cincinnati fills the final spot with an eye on roster flexibility and matchups down the stretch.
Betting implications and player-prop opportunities
From a betting standpoint, Stewart’s arrival could move the needle. Immediate impacts to monitor: - Shorter run-line and moneyline odds in games he starts as the lineup gains pop. - Increased volume and potential market tightening on Stewart player props (hits, total bases, RBIs). - Futures markets (division and Wild Card odds) may see marginal shifts if the Reds stack several roster upgrades.
Bettors should watch for the official move and opening-day lineup announcements before adjusting stakes, but early market movement is likely once the 40-man is filled.
Reds Make Move That May Pave Way for Top Prospect Sal Stewart
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