Elly De La Cruz: A Historic Season for the Books
This season has seen Cincinnati Reds’ star Elly De La Cruz cement his place in the annals of baseball history with a blend of power and speed that has been nothing short of spectacular. At just 22 years old, De La Cruz has delivered a standout performance that places him among the game's elite.
De La Cruz not only became the charter member of a new power/speed club, but he also joined the likes of Vince Coleman and Rickey Henderson as one of the few players to steal 100 bases in their first two seasons. It is a testament to his relentless drive and exceptional talent.
Power and Speed in Harmony
On a memorable Saturday game against the Pittsburgh Pirates, De La Cruz etched another milestone by hitting his 25th home run of the season. This achievement makes him the first shortstop to ever post a season with at least 25 home runs and 65 stolen bases, a feat that solidifies his standing in baseball lore. He is only the fifth player in the history of the sport to accomplish this remarkable combination in a single season.
His stats paint a vivid picture of his prowess: a .260 batting average, a .343 on-base percentage, and a .471 slugging percentage. Combined, these metrics underscore his all-around proficiency and ability to impact the game in multiple phases.
A Rising Star in the National League
De La Cruz’s performance has been instrumental for the Cincinnati Reds, and his 4.9 Wins Above Replacement (WAR) this year ranks him fifth in the National League. This ranking puts him in the company of baseball greats such as Shohei Ohtani (8.0 WAR), Matt Chapman (6.9 WAR), Francisco Lindor (6.6 WAR), and Ketel Marte (6.1 WAR). Being among such esteemed players highlights the exceptional season De La Cruz has had.
Despite his heroic efforts, the Reds have experienced a challenging season, posting a record of 75-80 and ultimately being eliminated from postseason contention. It's a continuation of a pattern since their last playoff appearance during the shortened 2020 season. The team has yet to replicate the success of 2020 in a full 162-game season, with the last instance dating back to 2013.
A Glimmer of Hope for the Future
While the Reds might find their current season ending on a somber note, the emergence of Elly De La Cruz provides a significant silver lining. His historical achievements and consistent performance offer a beacon of hope and a solid foundation upon which the Reds can build future success. At just 22, De La Cruz's potential seems boundless, and his trajectory suggests many more memorable seasons ahead.
The statistical brilliance and the undeniable impact of Elly De La Cruz on the Cincinnati Reds encapsulate a season of personal triumph amidst collective challenges. As he continues to develop and hone his skills, fans and analysts alike eagerly anticipate what the future holds for this rising star in the baseball world.