Cincinnati Reds infielder Elly De La Cruz delivered a powerful home run against the Chicago Cubs just one day after the passing of his older sister, Genelis De La Cruz Sánchez. De La Cruz’s emotional tribute came during Sunday’s game, where he pointed to the sky following his milestone hit, underscoring the personal significance of the moment.

Game Performance and Emotional Tributes

Aside from the home run in the sixth inning—which marked the 50th of his career and the 12th this season for the Reds—De La Cruz opened the game with a single and later scored in the ninth inning after a walk. Throughout the game, he visibly honored his sister by displaying messages on his spikes and hat, reflecting his heartfelt dedication during a challenging time.

Support from Reds Manager and Team

Reds manager Terry Francona revealed that De La Cruz expressed a strong desire to participate in the game despite his personal loss. Francona emphasized the importance of perspective in moments like these, saying,

“We care so much about playing a game and winning, but in a hurry you’re reminded of what’s really important,”

and added,

“I think everybody kind of kept their head on a swivel with him today, just trying to take care of him.”

Francona further praised De La Cruz’s resilience, stating,

“He takes so much pride in being available… for a kid that’s that young, that’s an admirable trait.”

Significance of De La Cruz’s Performance for the Reds

Elly De La Cruz’s ability to perform under such emotional strain highlights his talent and commitment to the Cincinnati Reds during the MLB season. His home run against the Cubs not only boosted the team’s efforts but also served as a moving personal tribute to his sister, Genelis. As the season progresses, De La Cruz is expected to remain a key contributor for the Reds, demonstrating both skill and remarkable strength off the field.