In a season characterized by both power and speed, Cincinnati Reds star Elly De La Cruz has made a significant impact on the baseball world. At just 22 years old, De La Cruz has established himself as a formidable presence on the field, becoming the charter member of a new power/speed club that few have joined.
A Historic Milestone
De La Cruz has become one of the only players, alongside legends like Vince Coleman and Rickey Henderson, to steal 100 bases within the first two seasons of his career. This accomplishment places him in elite company, showcasing his speed and base-running acumen. In addition to his prowess on the base paths, De La Cruz hit his 25th home run of the season in a recent game against the Pittsburgh Pirates, further underscoring his dual-threat capabilities.
Achieving 25 home runs in a single season is impressive enough, but De La Cruz has added another layer of distinction by being the first shortstop in history to reach this milestone alongside 65 stolen bases. This feat underscores his unique blend of power and speed, making him one of the most exciting players to watch in the league.
In Rare Company
Joining the ranks of only four other players in baseball history, De La Cruz’s combination of 25 home runs and 65 stolen bases in a single season is a testament to his exceptional talent and dedication. His .260 batting average, coupled with a .343 on-base percentage and a .471 slugging percentage, further highlight his overall offensive capabilities. These statistics reflect a balanced approach at the plate, enabling him to contribute consistently to his team's efforts.
Valuable Contributions
De La Cruz's value to the Cincinnati Reds goes beyond traditional statistics. With a Wins Above Replacement (WAR) of 4.9 this year, he ranks fifth in the National League. The only players with higher WAR numbers this season are Shohei Ohtani (8.0), Matt Chapman (6.9), Francisco Lindor (6.6), and Ketel Marte (6.1). This ranking places De La Cruz among the league's elite, underscoring his significant contributions to the Reds’ lineup.
Team Performance
While De La Cruz has enjoyed personal success, the Cincinnati Reds have struggled to replicate the team success seen in previous seasons. With a record of 75-80, the Reds have been eliminated from postseason contention, continuing a trend since their last playoff appearance during the shortened 2020 season. The Reds have not replicated their 2020 success over a full 162-game season since 2013, leaving fans yearning for a return to postseason glory.
Despite the team's overall struggles, De La Cruz's standout performances provide hope for the future. His achievements this season have not only captivated Reds’ supporters but have also drawn the attention of baseball enthusiasts nationwide. His ability to blend power and speed seamlessly is a rare trait, and his continued development will be crucial for the Reds as they look to build a competitive team in the coming seasons.
As the season winds down, Elly De La Cruz’s accomplishments stand as a bright spot for the Cincinnati Reds. His remarkable blend of speed and power sets him apart from his peers and establishes him as a cornerstone for the Reds' future aspirations. Although the team has faced challenges, the emergence of a star like De La Cruz provides a foundation for optimism and excitement in the seasons to come.