On Wednesday night, Cincinnati Reds shortstop Elly De La Cruz made MLB history by stealing his 60th base of the season. This milestone placed him among an elite group of players who have managed to hit at least 20 home runs and steal 60 bases in a single season. De La Cruz’s pivotal contributions helped the Reds rally from a six-run deficit to win 11-7 against the Toronto Blue Jays.
In the game, De La Cruz initially struggled, striking out in his first at-bat. However, he rebounded strongly by reaching base four times, stealing third base in the fifth inning, and scoring the tying run. His solo home run in the eighth inning, off pitcher Zach Pop, further solidified his role in the comeback victory.
Reflecting on his accomplishment, De La Cruz expressed pride and determination, saying, “It means a lot. That’s why I’m working in the offseason. I feel so proud and so happy.” His sentiments highlight the significance of joining the rare 20-home run, 60-stolen base club.
This feat has been achieved by a select few in MLB history. Ronald Acuña Jr. of the Atlanta Braves entered the club last season with 41 home runs and 73 stolen bases, following Hall of Famer Rickey Henderson, who accomplished it in 1990, 1986, and 1985. De La Cruz’s inclusion marks him as the third Reds player to join this elite group, following Eric Davis in 1986 and Joe Morgan in 1973 and 1976.
At only 22 years old, De La Cruz is the youngest Reds player to steal 60 bases in a season and the youngest MLB player to do so since José Reyes in 2005. Reds catcher Tyler Stephenson praised De La Cruz’s exceptional daily performance, emphasizing how remarkable it is to witness such talent and consistency on the field.
