In a season brimming with remarkable achievements, Elly De La Cruz continues to make history for the Cincinnati Reds. At just 22 years old, De La Cruz notched his 60th stolen base of the season during a riveting game in Toronto, joining a hallowed list of players in Major League Baseball.
Rising Star
Elly De La Cruz's feat places him among the very few who have reached the milestone of tallying at least 20 home runs and 60 stolen bases in a single season. The elite "20-60 club" boasts members of the highest pedigree, including Rickey Henderson, Joe Morgan, and Ronald Acuña Jr. This rare achievement has happened only eight times in the history of MLB, highlighting De La Cruz’s extraordinary season.
Elly De La Cruz's achievement this season, hitting 21 home runs alongside his 60 stolen bases, showcases his exceptional talent and versatility. Leading the majors in stolen bases, the young Reds shortstop has demonstrated a blend of speed and power that few in the game possess. This kind of dynamic performance puts him in a historical context, echoing the exploits of legends who transformed the game.
A Rare Achievement
Joe Morgan, who redefined the second baseman position with his combination of power and speed in the 1970s, is part of this exclusive club. Alongside him, Rickey Henderson accomplished the 20-60 feat multiple times throughout his illustrious career. Ronald Acuña Jr. further solidified the prestige of this group by achieving the milestone in 2023, becoming one of only three MVPs to do so, alongside Joe Morgan (1976) and Rickey Henderson (1990).
Achieving 20 home runs and 60 stolen bases in a single season is a testament to a player’s all-around excellence. Five Hall of Famers have etched their names into this category, underscoring the difficulty and distinction of the feat. The inclusion of De La Cruz speaks volumes about his potential and the bright future he has ahead in baseball.
A Season to Remember
The significance of De La Cruz reaching his 60th stolen base is magnified when considering that he had not successfully stolen a base since August 8th. The current date, August 21, means that De La Cruz went nearly two weeks without a stolen base before this landmark steal. Such a drought could demoralize an average player, but De La Cruz broke through it, reaffirming his resilience and relentless pursuit of excellence.
The landscape of stolen bases in baseball has changed over the years. The last time the 80-steal mark was reached was in 1988 by Rickey Henderson and Vince Coleman, emphasizing how speedsters like De La Cruz are a rare breed in the modern game. His prowess on the base paths brings a new dimension to his team’s offensive strategy, often turning singles into scoring opportunities through his agility and intelligence on the bases.
Looking Forward
With Elly De La Cruz's consistent performance, the Reds have a gem who can contribute significantly both in the field and at the plate. As the 2024 season progresses, De La Cruz's contributions will be pivotal for the Reds' aspirations. His 60 stolen bases complement his knack for power-hitting, making him a formidable force in the game of baseball.
In a sport where the balance of power and speed is continually celebrated, Elly De La Cruz stands out as a modern exemplar. His achievements this season are not just milestones but a prelude to what promises to be an extraordinary career ahead. For fans and analysts alike, De La Cruz offers a thrilling glimpse into the future of baseball’s evolving talent pool.