In a season marked by both extraordinary power and exceptional speed, Cincinnati Reds star Elly De La Cruz has emerged as one of baseball’s most dynamic young talents. At just 22 years old, De La Cruz has already etched his name alongside the game's historical greats, staking his claim in an exclusive new club that celebrates both power and agility.
On Saturday, De La Cruz highlighted his remarkable skills against the Pittsburgh Pirates by belting his 25th home run of the season. This milestone further solidifies his status as a dual-threat player, blending the raw power of his swing with the finesse and speed that have come to define his game.
Joining Elite Company
De La Cruz’s achievements this season extend beyond just home runs. He has also stolen 65 bases, becoming the first shortstop in baseball history to post a season with at least 25 home runs and 65 stolen bases. This also marks him as the fifth player ever to achieve these numbers in a single season, placing him among some of baseball's most revered names.
Moreover, De La Cruz now finds himself in the company of legends Vince Coleman and Rickey Henderson, as one of the few players to steal 100 bases over their first two seasons. This noteworthy feat underscores the young star's game-changing abilities on the base paths.
A Season of Consistency and Performance
Elly De La Cruz’s offensive statistics paint a picture of a well-rounded and potent hitter. He boasts a batting average of .260, an on-base percentage of .343, and a slugging percentage of .471. All of which contribute to his impressive 4.9 Wins Above Replacement (WAR) this year, ranking him fifth in the National League. The only players ahead of him are elite talents: Shohei Ohtani (8.0 WAR), Matt Chapman (6.9 WAR), Francisco Lindor (6.6 WAR), and Ketel Marte (6.1 WAR).
While the Cincinnati Reds have struggled as a team this season — sitting at a record of 75-80 — De La Cruz’s individual performance has been a beacon of hope for the franchise. The Reds have been eliminated from postseason contention, marking another year since their last playoff appearance during the shortened 2020 season. It has been a decade now since the Reds replicated the success of that year in a full 162-game season, last seen in 2013.
Looking Forward
As the Reds' season winds down, the emergence of Elly De La Cruz offers a silver lining. His milestone-filled campaign, combining both power and speed, sets the stage for what could be a cornerstone career. At just 22, De La Cruz has not only thrilled fans with his on-field exploits but also provided a glimpse into a promising future for Cincinnati baseball.
In a sport where being excellent in one facet is often enough to build a legacy, De La Cruz’s rare combination of skills makes him a player to watch in the coming years. His journey with the Reds may be just beginning, but it's clear that Elly De La Cruz is fully primed to carve out an indelible legacy in the annals of Major League Baseball.