Shohei Ohtani isn’t the only star making MLB history.
Cincinnati Reds All-Star Elly De La Cruz has become the first shortstop with at least 25 home runs and 65 stolen bases in the same season.
Elly De La Cruz is the first shortstop in MLB history (min. 50% of games played at SS) with 25+ HR and 65+ SB in one season. pic.twitter.com/wp5w9Txogz
— MLB (@MLB) September 21, 2024
The momentous blast came off Pittsburgh Pirates pitcher Jared Jones. The three-run blast nearly left Great American Ball Park.
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But that’s not all De La Cruz has accomplished. The 22-year-old is the first player ever to have 100 extra-base hits and 100 stolen bases in the same season.
Elly De La Cruz recorded his 50th career double in the third inning against the Pirates!
— Bally Sports Cincinnati (@BallySportsCIN) September 21, 2024
He is the only Major League player ever to record 100 extra-base hits and 100 stolen bases over his first two seasons. ⚡⚡ pic.twitter.com/MppZVvuYVW
De La Cruz has lived up to the hype after the Reds signed him out of the Dominican Republic in 2018. He tore through the minor leagues before making his MLB debut June 6, 2023.
De La Cruz made his first All-Star team this year. He doesn’t become a free agent until 2030.
Injuries derailed what was thought to be a promising 2024 season for the Reds. De La Cruz and the Reds should be pushing for a playoff berth in 2025.
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