New York Mets shortstop Francisco Lindor, recognized as one of the top players at his position, recently addressed a comparison made by Cleveland Cavaliers guard Donovan Mitchell between himself and Cincinnati Reds star Elly De La Cruz. During a conversation, Lindor expressed disagreement with Mitchell’s claim that De La Cruz is his <a href="https://www.buzzineintl.com/category/baseball/mlb/”>Major League Baseball counterpart, suggesting instead that CJ Abrams from the Washington Nationals fits better.
Lindor Challenges Mitchell’s Comparison with De La Cruz
Donovan Mitchell publicly stated on Tuesday that Elly De La Cruz is the <a href="https://www.buzzineintl.com/category/baseball/mlb/”>MLB equivalent of his playing style. However, Lindor dismissed this view, highlighting key differences between Mitchell and De La Cruz. He pointed out that De La Cruz is not a switch hitter and questioned Mitchell’s ability to throw as fast as 100 miles per hour, factors that distinguish the Reds infielder’s approach from Mitchell’s own.
“You’re not switch-hitting,” Francisco Lindor said (26:50), via “Café con Lindor.” “I don’t think you can throw 100 (mph).”
Mitchell acknowledged that he is not a switch hitter but insisted this trait should not be factored into the comparison. He added optimism about improving his arm strength over time, recalling that he nearly threw 90 mph while in high school.
“Right now, no, of course not,” Mitchell said (27:01). “But if like, you know, give me like four years, get some arm strength. I was at 90 damn near in high school.”
Mitchell’s Baseball Roots and Connections
Mitchell’s familiarity with baseball runs deep, as his father, who shares his name, is a former Minor League Baseball player and currently works within the New York Mets’ front office. Growing up around the Mets’ locker room provided Mitchell with unique insight into the sport and its environment. This background likely influenced his willingness to engage in baseball comparisons.
When Mets’ outfielder Juan Soto signed a landmark $765 million contract in December, Mitchell was among the first to congratulate him, even jokingly claiming credit for Soto’s decision to join the team during the podcast discussion.
Francisco Lindor Suggests CJ Abrams as a More Fitting Parallel
Francisco Lindor offered a different perspective, stating that CJ Abrams better represents Donovan Mitchell in Major League Baseball. Abrams, a young player with the Washington Nationals, shares more physical and stylistic similarities with the <a href="https://www.buzzineintl.com/category/basketball/nba/”>NBA guard than De La Cruz does.
“I don’t see it,” Francisco Lindor said (27:09), via “Café con Lindor.” “(Elly De La Cruz is) way faster. I think (CJ) Abrams is a better comp.”
Lindor detailed key traits that make Abrams a suitable comparison—such as being a left-handed hitter who throws right-handed, an uncommon combination that matches Mitchell’s style. Additionally, Abrams is known for his mobility, agility, and explosive playmaking abilities, alongside strong power and speed.
“You hit lefty, throw righty,” Francisco Lindor said (26:21). “It is very unique. It don’t happen. It don’t happen too often. You can move. You can jump. Explosive. But I like CJ Abrams. I mean, that’s like 25 home runs. 30 40 bags. Good elite shortstop.”
Physical measurements support Lindor’s view: Mitchell stands 6-foot-3, Abrams is just an inch shorter, while De La Cruz is slightly taller by two inches. Both De La Cruz and Abrams are regarded as five-tool players with well-rounded abilities, but De La Cruz has generated more standout plays on both offense and defense so far in their careers.
Implications of the Comparison Debate
This discussion sheds light on how athletes view parallels between their skills and those in other sports, revealing nuances beyond surface-level attributes. Lindor’s correction emphasizes that comparisons should consider multiple aspects like handedness, physical attributes, and playing styles. Mitchell’s openness to improvement also reflects an athlete’s mindset of continual growth.
As Donovan Mitchell continues his NBA career, and Elly De La Cruz and CJ Abrams develop fully in MLB, these debates provide fan engagement and deepen appreciation for cross-sport athleticism. Lindor’s insights contribute to framing how such comparisons are thoughtfully considered, rather than taken at face value.