Since his major league debut in June 2023, Elly De La Cruz has quickly become one of the most electrifying players in baseball, establishing himself as a key figure for the Cincinnati Reds. His standout performance in the 2025 season earned him a second straight All-Star nod, prompting Reds legend Sean Casey to predict that De La Cruz is ready to make a significant leap towards the 2025 NL MVP conversation.
Casey detailed his thoughts during a Wednesday appearance on his YouTube channel, emphasizing De La Cruz’s exceptional skill set and physical traits.
“He is a superstar,” Casey said (Timestamp: 1:42). “Just being out there with him in Bristol, seeing him up-close man, he’s just different the way he looks. He’s so tall, he’s so lean, so fast, it looks a little different. So, like I said, can’t teach experience in baseball. The more you play, the better you’re going to be. Elly De La Cruz continues to impress.
“Let me tell you what, if he goes off in this second half and brings the Reds to the playoffs, you’re looking at some awards maybe.”
Sean Casey Believes De La Cruz Could Become One of Cincinnati’s All-Time Greats
Sean Casey, a celebrated Reds Hall of Famer, has openly expressed admiration for De La Cruz’s abilities since the young Dominican talent first gained attention. In a mid-July YouTube video, Casey expanded on his belief that De La Cruz has what it takes to become
“one of the greatest to ever do it”
in Cincinnati Reds history if he fulfills his immense potential.
“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 (Timestamp: 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.”
During the current season, De La Cruz is maintaining a batting average of .279 with 19 home runs and 73 RBIs, fueling Cincinnati’s push for their first playoff appearance since 2020. With the Reds sitting fourth in the wildcard standings, his performance could be instrumental in altering the team’s postseason fate.
Prospects for De La Cruz and the Reds Moving Forward
Elly De La Cruz’s blend of size, speed, and experience continues to captivate fans and experts alike, highlighting his potential for an extraordinary career. As Cincinnati competes for a playoff berth, De La Cruz’s ability to elevate his game in the coming months makes him a pivotal figure in the Reds’ quest for success. Sean Casey’s predictions underscore the growing excitement around De La Cruz’s future, hinting that a historic season could be on the horizon for this emerging star.