Chicago White Sox starter Davis Martin left Thursday’s game against the Cincinnati Reds after hitting All-Star rookie Sal Stewart in the head, causing the benches to clear.
Stewart, 22, has had a fantastic season for the Reds, and added to his impressive campaign with a solo home run off of Martin in the top of the first inning. His second plate appearance of the day came in the third inning, and Martin appeared to retaliate.
After getting a first-pitch strike on Stewart, Martin threw a fastball well above his head—which Stewart clearly didn’t like. On the third pitch of the at-bat, Martin caught the C-Flap of Stewart’s helmet, prompting a verbal response from Stewart, who pointed the knob of his bat towards the mound.
The benches and bullpens both cleared to keep the two apart, causing a delay on the field.
The teams didn’t remain on the field for long, but the umpiring crew tossed Martin before the beginning of the following at-bat—prompting another on-field delay. Stewart came around to score on a sacrifice fly three batters later and remained in the game afterwards.
How Important Is Sal Stewart to the Reds?
The Reds have had plenty of surprises this year, but Sal Stewart has been their most impactful addition on the year. He first came to the majors at the end of 2025, but didn’t exceed his rookie limits while hitting five homers and posting a .839 OPS through 18 games.
In 119 games this season, Stewart has 26 home runs and 89 RBIs to go with an impressive .817 OPS. He also made the All-Star team as a reserve. The Reds are five games under .500 at the moment, but still have an outside chance to sneak into the postseason — a charge Stewart is sure to play a huge role in.
Who Is Davis Martin?
The White Sox are also putting together an impressive season, and Martin has been in their rotation for the entirety of it. The fourth-year right-hander has a 4.32 ERA through 24 starts this season, striking out 111 batters in 125 innings pitched.
He has made 75 MLB appearances over the past four seasons, hovering above the 4.00 ERA mark in each of his seasons.