Elly De La Cruz Puts on a Show with Historic Stolen Bases in Cincinnati Reds’ Win
CINCINNATI – In a stunning display of speed and skill, Elly De La Cruz stole every base to give the Cincinnati Reds a 7-5 lead in the top of the seventh inning against the Milwaukee Brewers on Saturday. This remarkable feat by the 21-year-old switch-hitting shortstop/third baseman has garnered much attention and has solidified his status as the most exciting player in baseball.
With this incredible performance, De La Cruz became the first Reds player to steal second base, third base, and home plate in the same inning since Greasy Neale accomplished the same feat in 1919. De La Cruz’s steal of home plate gave the Reds a two-run lead, just minutes after he gave the team the lead with an RBI single.
De La Cruz’s impact on the field has been undeniable since his debut on June 6. He has quickly become a sensation, capturing the hearts of fans with his electrifying style of play. In his short tenure with the Reds, De La Cruz has already accumulated 40 hits, four home runs, and an impressive 16 stolen bases in just 29 games.
The Reds’ victory against the Brewers solidifies their position as a force to be reckoned with in the National League Central. With a current record of 50-40, the Reds sit comfortably in first place in the division.
Reds manager David Bell expressed his awe and admiration for De La Cruz’s stolen bases after the game. “The speed is obvious, right? Elite speed, like maybe we’ve never seen, but also how heads-up it was,” Bell said. “We knew something was about to happen when he rounded third as he stole third base. It was like he was on a mission to score.”
De La Cruz’s impact goes beyond just his stolen bases. In his 15th game, he hit for the team’s first cycle since 1989, showcasing his power and versatility. With his incredible offensive production, including several infield singles and four home runs, De La Cruz has played a significant role in the Reds’ success.
The Reds have experienced a remarkable turnaround since De La Cruz’s call-up, going 22-7 and climbing from third place to first place in the NL Central. With their win against the Brewers on Saturday, the Reds have established themselves as the team to beat in the division and are guaranteed to enter the All-Star Break with a comfortable lead.
As fans and analysts eagerly follow De La Cruz’s every move, it is clear that he has become a player worth watching. His speed, skill, and impact on the game are undeniably impressive, making him a rising star in the MLB.
(Photo: Katie Stratman / USA Today Sports)