Elly De La Cruz: A New Star Shines Bright in Cincinnati
The 2023 Major League Baseball season may not have brought postseason glory for the Cincinnati Reds, but it has certainly been a breakout year for one of their brightest young talents, Elly De La Cruz. At just 22 years old, De La Cruz has showcased an extraordinary combination of power and speed, earning him a place in the history books and the admiration of baseball fans nationwide.
A New Power/Speed Phenomenon
Elly De La Cruz has firmly established himself as a dynamo on the field, becoming the charter member of a new power/speed club. He is the first shortstop in Major League history to post a season with at least 25 home runs and 65 stolen bases. This remarkable achievement puts him in rarefied air, joining the likes of Vince Coleman and Rickey Henderson as one of the few players to steal 100 bases in their first two seasons.
During a game against the Pittsburgh Pirates on Saturday, De La Cruz hammered his 25th home run of the season, further cementing his status as a unique talent. His ability to combine power at the plate with swift agility on the bases makes him a multifaceted threat every time he steps onto the field.
Statistical Excellence
De La Cruz's contributions go beyond just the flashy home runs and stolen bases. His season numbers highlight a well-rounded and impactful performance. With a .260 batting average, a .343 on-base percentage, and a .471 slugging percentage, he has demonstrated consistency and power. These numbers, coupled with his impressive 4.9 Wins Above Replacement (WAR), underline his significance to the Reds this season.
De La Cruz's 4.9 WAR ranks fifth in the National League, trailing only behind elite players like Shohei Ohtani (8.0), Matt Chapman (6.9), Francisco Lindor (6.6), and Ketel Marte (6.1). This impressive WAR statistic underscores De La Cruz's value to his team, emphasizing his effectiveness both offensively and defensively.
Team Challenges
Despite De La Cruz's standout season, the Cincinnati Reds have struggled to find consistent success. With a current record of 75-80, the Reds have been officially eliminated from postseason contention. The last time the team made it to the playoffs was during the pandemic-shortened 2020 season. Unfortunately, the reds have not managed to replicate that success in a full 162-game season since 2013, highlighting ongoing challenges for the franchise.
A Bright Future Ahead
Elly De La Cruz's emergence as a star provides a beacon of hope for Reds fans. His historic achievements and relentless performance this season suggest that he has the potential to be a cornerstone of the franchise for years to come. While the team faces challenges in returning to playoff contention, having a player of De La Cruz's caliber is certainly a step in the right direction.
As the Reds look to rebuild and strengthen their roster, the presence of a player who can deliver both power and speed like De La Cruz is invaluable. His continued development and the anticipation around his future contributions are bound to keep the excitement alive for Cincinnati’s baseball faithful.
The 2023 season may not have ended with a playoff berth for the Reds, but it has undoubtedly been a memorable one thanks to the rise of Elly De La Cruz. His extraordinary combination of talents and his record-breaking feats on the field have not only elevated his status but have also provided a glimpse of what could be a thrilling journey ahead for both him and the Cincinnati Reds.