Elly De La Cruz of the Cincinnati Reds made history during a 7-1 win against the Pittsburgh Pirates by becoming the youngest player in MLB history to hit 25 home runs and steal 60 bases in a single season. The 22-year-old reached this milestone in the fourth inning with a three-run homer, pushing the Reds to a 6-0 lead. His impressive performance included three hits, a double, and four RBIs.
De La Cruz joined an elite group of Reds players, becoming only the third in the franchise’s history to have at least 25 home runs and 65 stolen bases in one season, alongside legends Eric Davis and Barry Larkin. Reflecting on the accomplishment, De La Cruz expressed gratitude and pride, acknowledging the significance of being mentioned with such great players and his determination to finish the season strong.
On the previous night, De La Cruz stole his 65th base of the season, marking his 100th career stolen base in just his 251st MLB game, a testament to his remarkable speed and base-running skills. His ability to consistently steal bases highlights his all-around athleticism and contribution to the Reds’ success this season.
Further solidifying his place in baseball history, De La Cruz became only the third player in MLB to record 35 doubles, 25 homers, and 60 stolen bases in a season. He joined Ronald Acuña Jr., who accomplished the feat in 2023, and Cincinnati great Joe Morgan, who did so in 1973. This achievement underscores De La Cruz’s versatility and extraordinary talent in both power and speed.
