In a season marked by both power and speed, Cincinnati Reds star Elly De La Cruz has firmly cemented his place in Major League Baseball history. At just 22 years old, De La Cruz has shattered records and expectations, joining elite company with a singular blend of home run prowess and base-stealing acumen.
De La Cruz's remarkable year reached new heights on Saturday against the Pittsburgh Pirates. With his 25th home run, he became the first shortstop ever to log a season featuring at least 25 home runs and 65 stolen bases. This achievement places him in an exclusive echelon, shared by only five players in baseball history.
A Season of Milestones
De La Cruz's achievements extend beyond mere numbers. He’s become the charter member of a new power/speed club, joining the likes of Vince Coleman and Rickey Henderson, two legends who also stole 100 bases in their first two seasons. These milestones underscore his rare talent and versatility.
Beyond his home run and stolen base feats, De La Cruz has also maintained a respectable .260 batting average, coupled with a .343 on-base percentage and a .471 slugging percentage. Such well-rounded statistics emphasize his ability not only to change the game with a single swing but also to consistently contribute to his team's offensive efforts.
Contributions to the Team
While De La Cruz's individual exploits have been nothing short of spectacular, his contributions to the Cincinnati Reds have been equally valuable, evidenced by his 4.9 Wins Above Replacement (WAR) this year. This figure ranks fifth in the National League, placing him among the upper echelon of players this season. Only Shohei Ohtani (8.0), Matt Chapman (6.9), Francisco Lindor (6.6), and Ketel Marte (6.1) have higher WAR, attesting to the level of competition in the league.
The Team's Struggles
Despite De La Cruz's stellar season, the Cincinnati Reds have had their struggles. With a record of 75-80, the team has been eliminated from postseason contention. Their last playoff appearance was during the shortened 2020 season, and they have yet to replicate that success over a full 162-game schedule since 2013. The current season's outcome underscores the challenges that have plagued the Reds, making De La Cruz's individual achievements all the more noteworthy.
Looking Ahead
Elly De La Cruz's breakout season has provided a beacon of hope for Reds fans, offering a glimpse of what the future could hold. His emergence as a dual-threat player brings an exciting dimension to the team and signals potential upward momentum for the franchise. As the Reds aim to rebuild and compete in future seasons, De La Cruz's role as a cornerstone player will be pivotal.
In summation, Elly De La Cruz's 2023 season stands as a testament to his immense talent and potential. At only 22 years old, he has already achieved what many players only dream of, setting records and drawing comparisons to some of the game's greats. While the Reds' struggles continue, De La Cruz's individual brilliance offers a much-needed silver lining and a reason for optimism as the team moves forward.