Elly De La Cruz: A Stellar Season Marked by Power and Speed
In a season where both power and speed have become increasingly rare commodities, Cincinnati Reds star Elly De La Cruz has emerged as a dynamic force. At just 22 years old, De La Cruz has showcased a unique blend of skills, joining the elite ranks of players who have recorded exceptional milestones early in their careers.
De La Cruz has made his mark as a charter member of a new power/speed club, blending the prowess of sluggers with the agility of base stealers. This season, he joined the illustrious company of Vince Coleman and Rickey Henderson as one of the few players to steal 100 bases within their first two major league seasons. Such a feat places him in the elite strata of baseball history, signifying both talent and dedication.
The young shortstop has also brought fireworks with his bat. In a recent game against the Pittsburgh Pirates, De La Cruz hit his 25th home run of the season, a testament to his power-hitting abilities. This milestone makes him the first shortstop ever to record at least 25 home runs and 65 stolen bases in a single season. Moreover, he stands as only the fifth player in baseball history to achieve this impressive combination, underscoring the rarity and significance of his performance.
Statistically, De La Cruz's season has been nothing short of remarkable. He has maintained a .260 batting average, a .343 on-base percentage, and a .471 slugging percentage. His overall contribution to the team can be quantified through his Wins Above Replacement (WAR), which stands at an impressive 4.9, ranking him fifth in the National League this season. The only players surpassing him in this metric are Shohei Ohtani (8.0), Matt Chapman (6.9), Francisco Lindor (6.6), and Ketel Marte (6.1).
Despite his individual accolades, De La Cruz's breakout year has not been enough to propel the Cincinnati Reds into postseason contention. With a record of 75-80, the Reds have been officially eliminated from playoff consideration. Their last appearance in the postseason was during the shortened 2020 season, and they have yet to replicate that success in a full 162-game season since 2013.
The Reds' struggle to regain their former glory does not diminish De La Cruz's achievements. His performance this season has provided a bright spot for the franchise and given fans a reason to be optimistic about the future. As he continues to develop and refine his skills, the hope is that his efforts will eventually translate into greater team success.
In conclusion, Elly De La Cruz's 2023 season will be remembered not only for the records he set and the milestones he reached but also for the promise he represents. At just 22 years old, he has demonstrated that he possesses the talent, work ethic, and drive to become one of the game's greats. While the Reds' season may end without a playoff berth, De La Cruz's star is only beginning to rise.
With the combination of his speed, power, and all-around athleticism, Elly De La Cruz is undoubtedly a player to watch in the coming years. His historic feats this season have carved his name into the annals of baseball history, and fans eagerly await what he will achieve next.