Cincinnati Reds shortstop Elly De La Cruz has quickly become one of the most thrilling talents in Major League Baseball since his debut in June 2023. Known for his dynamic performance, De La Cruz’s sophomore season set historic marks as he became the only <a href="https://www.buzzineintl.com/category/baseball/mlb/”>MLB shortstop to hit 20 home runs and steal 60 bases in a single season, finishing with 25 homers and 67 stolen bases. Reds Hall of Famer Sean Casey recently praised De La Cruz’s extraordinary potential and predicted he could achieve legendary status in the sport.
Sean Casey’s Admiration for Elly De La Cruz’s Talent
Sean Casey, who spent 12 seasons playing in the MLB and earned three All-Star selections with the Reds, expressed deep respect for De La Cruz’s unique abilities. During an appearance on The Mayor’s Office with Sean Casey, the former player highlighted De La Cruz’s physical presence and personality after meeting him in person. Casey described De La Cruz as not only a towering athlete but also a natural leader in the clubhouse who commands admiration from his teammates.
“The Cincinnati Reds fans, you know, are the best in the game as far as like, you know, just some of the greatest players that have ever played this amazing game of baseball,” Casey said (16:09).
“And Elly De La Cruz could go down as one of those guys, you know, one of those guys where you’re like, man, this guy is one of the greatest to ever do it.”
“Elly came over and I was talking to him and stuff. This guy’s a big dude, bro,” Casey said [16:42]. “I’m a pretty big guy. I’m 6’3, 6’4. This guy towered me and he’s big and he’s so nice. He’s so stinking nice and I think he’s a leader in that clubhouse. Guys love him. But playing for Tito, I think you could see his standards starting to go up for his play.”
Impact of Terry Francona’s Leadership on De La Cruz
Before the 2024 season, the Reds brought in Terry Francona as the new manager, a leader who has guided Boston Red Sox teams to two World Series titles. Francona’s experience with baseball legends like David Ortiz, Manny Ramirez, and Pedro Martinez adds a valuable perspective to his new role mentoring De La Cruz. The manager’s visit to the Dominican Republic to meet the star shortstop underscores the organization’s commitment to nurturing De La Cruz’s growth.
“My goal is not for him [Elly De La Cruz] just to be an exciting good player, it’s for him to be one of the best players in baseball on one of the best teams in baseball,” Francona said during his appearance on Reds Hot Stove in November.
The Path Ahead for Elly De La Cruz’s MLB Legacy
Elly De La Cruz’s combination of power, speed, and leadership has already captivated fans and baseball insiders alike. With Sean Casey’s endorsement and Terry Francona’s guidance, De La Cruz is positioned to raise his game to elite levels. As he continues to develop under the watchful eyes of seasoned veterans and coaches, his trajectory points toward a remarkable MLB legacy that could someday place him among the sport’s all-time greats.
This exciting potential emphasizes the Cincinnati Reds’ future, highlighting not only their rising star but also the revitalization of a storied franchise ready to compete at the highest levels once again.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Is Elly De La Cruz really good?
A. After looking again, Elly De La Cruz plays baseball very well. It seemed like the ball hit the top of the fence and bounced inside the field, which usually means it’s still in play. He might improve his fielding if he wore less gear.
Q. Is Elly De La Cruz good?
A. He earned several awards, such as MiLB Organization All-Star and Midwest League Postseason All-Star. He was also the Midwest League Prospect of the Year.
In addition, he was chosen as the Reds’ Minor League Player of the Year, Baseball America’s Reds Minor League Player of the Year, and Minor League Baseball’s Top Prospect in the Midwest League.
Q. How much money does Elly De La Cruz have?
A. Elly De La Cruz, playing for the Cincinnati Reds, has an $800,000 yearly salary. By 2029, he could earn more as a free agent. Alongside his contract, he boosts his earnings by endorsing brands like Jordan and MLB The Show.