Elly De La Cruz Joins Elite Company with 60th Stolen Base
Elly De La Cruz has carved out a place for himself among baseball's elite, reaching a rare milestone that few in Major League Baseball history have achieved. The 22-year-old Reds shortstop swiped his 60th stolen base of the season during a recent game in Toronto, joining an exclusive club of legendary players known for their combination of power and speed.
This young phenom, who leads the majors in stolen bases, has not only demonstrated his blazing speed on the base paths but has also showcased his power, hitting 21 home runs so far in the 2024 season. Achieving both 20 home runs and 60 stolen bases in a single season places De La Cruz in a rarefied group, known as the 20-60 club, which includes names like Rickey Henderson, Joe Morgan, and Ronald Acuña Jr.
Reaching the 60 stolen base mark is no small feat. Until his game in Toronto, De La Cruz had not successfully stolen a base since August 8th. His accomplishment revitalized excitement among Reds fans and baseball aficionados alike, harking back to an era when stolen bases were a cornerstone of offensive strategy.
A Club of Legends
The 20-60 club is one of the most challenging feats in baseball, underlined by the rarity of its members. Only eight seasons in MLB history feature a player achieving this milestone. Players who have reached such heights include Hall of Famers known for their exceptional skills in both power hitting and base stealing.
Rickey Henderson, widely regarded as one of the greatest leadoff hitters and base stealers of all time, accomplished the 20-60 feat multiple times throughout his illustrious career. Joe Morgan, another Hall of Famer who redefined the second baseman position with his combination of power and speed in the 1970s, also marks his presence in this exclusive group. Meanwhile, Ronald Acuña Jr., the most recent addition before De La Cruz, secured his spot with an extraordinary MVP season in 2023.
De La Cruz's achievement shines brighter given that five of the eight 20-60 milestones were accomplished by players who eventually entered the Hall of Fame. This underlines not just the rarity, but also the prestige associated with joining such a club.
A Season for the Ages
Elly De La Cruz's 2024 season has been one for the ages. Beyond his speed and power, he has demonstrated a level of maturity and athleticism that belies his 22 years. His 21 home runs and 60 stolen bases are not just numbers but a testament to his multifaceted talent and dedication to the game.
The stolen base, a unique and thrilling element of baseball, had diminished in prominence over recent decades. The last time baseball witnessed the 80-steal mark was in 1988, achieved by Rickey Henderson and Vince Coleman. Though the modern era has seen a decline in stolen base attempts, players like De La Cruz reignite the excitement surrounding this dynamic aspect of the game.
A Date with Destiny
As of August 21, Elly De La Cruz continues to set the baseball world alight with his performances. His achievements are not just individual milestones but moments that contribute to the broader narrative of baseball history. De La Cruz’s feat places him in conversations with legends and adds a vibrant chapter to the storied legacy of the game.
Elly De La Cruz's extraordinary season serves as a reminder of the thrilling, multifaceted talents that still flourish in today's game. With his speed and power, he not only captivates audiences but also etches his name alongside the greatest players in baseball's rich history.