In a breakout season that has blended both immense power and relentless speed, Cincinnati Reds star Elly De La Cruz has firmly established himself as a rising talent in Major League Baseball (MLB). At just 22 years old, De La Cruz has captivated baseball fans with his electrifying performance, making him the charter member of a new power/speed club and placing him among the elite players who have ever graced the field.
De La Cruz’s achievement in his sophomore season is nothing short of remarkable. With his 25th home run hit against the Pittsburgh Pirates on a recent Saturday, the young shortstop not only solidified his position as a power hitter but also etched his name in the annals of baseball history. He is the first shortstop ever to record a season with at least 25 home runs and 65 stolen bases, a feat that speaks volumes about his dual-threat capability.
A New Milestone
Joining an exclusive club of players who have managed to showcase both power and speed, De La Cruz becomes just the fifth player in baseball history to notch 25 home runs and 65 stolen bases in a single season. This rare combination of skills places him in the company of legendary names like Vince Coleman and Rickey Henderson, who are among the very few to have ever stolen 100 bases in their first two seasons.
His stellar performance this season is underscored by some impressive statistics. De La Cruz boasts a .260 batting average, a .343 on-base percentage, and a .471 slugging percentage. These numbers highlight his ability to contribute offensively in diverse ways, making him a constant threat at the plate and on the base paths.
Contribution and Recognition
Elly De La Cruz’s impact extends beyond the basic metrics. This season, he has amassed a 4.9 Wins Above Replacement (WAR), ranking fifth in the National League. This advanced statistic, which attempts to summarize a player's total contributions to their team, illustrates his indispensable role in the Reds' lineup. Among those ahead of him in this metric are some of the game’s current luminaries: Shohei Ohtani (8.0 WAR), Matt Chapman (6.9 WAR), Francisco Lindor (6.6 WAR), and Ketel Marte (6.1 WAR).
A Season of Contrast
Despite De La Cruz’s heroics, the Reds’ overall season has been a tale of struggle and missed opportunities. With a record of 75-80, Cincinnati has officially been eliminated from postseason contention. The team’s last foray into playoff baseball came during the shortened 2020 season, a fleeting success they have been unable to replicate in a full 162-game season since 2013.
The Reds’ inconsistency, combined with injuries and other setbacks, has overshadowed the individual brilliance of players like De La Cruz. However, his standout season offers a glimmer of hope and a foundation upon which the franchise can build future success. His combination of speed and power is not just a rare talent but also a compelling asset that the Reds can harness as they aim to reclaim their competitive edge in the coming years.
Looking Ahead
With youth firmly on his side, De La Cruz's future in MLB looks exceedingly bright. Keeping in mind his age and the already high level of achievement, it is easy to envision him continuing to develop and hone his skills. The Reds, meanwhile, will undoubtedly look to build around their young superstar, hoping to turn individual accolades into collective victories.
As the 2023 season draws to a close, Elly De La Cruz has given Cincinnati fans much to celebrate. His historic contributions and versatility have not only propelled him into the spotlight but have also set the stage for what promises to be an exciting career. Baseball purists and fans alike will be watching keenly, eager to see what heights this young phenom can reach in the seasons to come.