The Cincinnati Reds suffered a tough loss to the Milwaukee Brewers on Saturday after a critical error by Elly De La Cruz in the ninth inning allowed the tying run to score. This mistake added to De La Cruz’s league-leading total of 17 errors in the 2025 season, intensifying frustration among Reds fans and sparking widespread social media reaction centering on the shortstop’s defensive struggles.
Growing Concerns Over De La Cruz’s Defensive Performance
Saturday’s defeat followed a disappointing Friday game in which the Reds blew an 8-1 lead. With a narrow 2-1 lead late in the game, Cincinnati held an opportunity to even the series but faltered due to a costly throwing error from De La Cruz. The error not only allowed Milwaukee to tie the game but ultimately contributed to the Reds falling 6-5 in extra innings.
Despite a reputation for making spectacular plays that few shortstops can replicate, De La Cruz’s routine defensive execution has been inconsistent this season. His frequent miscues have not gone unnoticed, leading many fans to dub him “Error De La Cruz,” a nickname that reflects the mounting disappointment surrounding his defense.
Social Media’s Reaction and Fans’ Growing Frustration
De La Cruz’s defensive problems are a recurring issue. After leading the league with 29 errors in 2024 and committing 14 during his rookie year, the shortstop’s error count continues to be a major talking point among Reds supporters. Calls for the team to move him from shortstop to the outfield have been persistent, based on his speed and strong arm, skills fans believe would suit a Gold Glove-quality outfielder.
However, the Reds have maintained De La Cruz as their starting shortstop despite the defensive concerns. His defensive metrics reflect this struggle as well; after posting 14 outs above average (OAA) last year, he is currently rated at -2 OAA in 2025.
“Error De La Cruz doing Elly De La Cruz things with the game on the line. Eat the ball and no runs score. That said, Matt McLain needs to charge a ball once on his lifetime. He’s scared out there. #Reds” — Proud American (@ProudUSA76)
Legacy Comparisons Highlight Pressure on De La Cruz
While De La Cruz receives praise for his flashy defensive plays, his mistakes often weigh more heavily on fans’ minds, especially in crucial moments. This latest series of errors, including the one on Saturday, has tested the patience of many in the Reds’ fanbase, who have long debated his defensive viability at shortstop.
Historically, Cincinnati has celebrated players with memorable nicknames symbolizing their skills and contributions—such as “Dat Dude BP” for Brandon Phillips, “The Big Donkey” for Adam Dunn, and “Charlie Hustle” for Pete Rose. Currently, however, De La Cruz faces the challenge of overcoming a less flattering nickname born from his defensive lapses if he hopes to be remembered more for his strengths than his mistakes.
The significance of improving his defense extends beyond just reputation; it affects the Reds’ overall competitiveness, especially as the team continues striving for success against rivals like the Milwaukee Brewers. How De La Cruz responds to this period of criticism and pressure could influence his role on the team and the Reds’ defensive strategy moving forward.