Cincinnati Reds’ Elly De La Cruz Continues Red-Hot Start, Slugging His Way to MVP Contention
The 2024 Major League Baseball season is proving to be the year of Elly De La Cruz. The 21-year-old shortstop for the Cincinnati Reds has been nothing short of spectacular, combining raw power, exceptional speed, and elite defensive skills to quickly establish himself as one of the game’s brightest young stars. After a stellar start to the season, De La Cruz has firmly planted himself in the conversation for National League MVP, and with each passing game, it becomes clearer that he has the potential to lead the Reds back to postseason contention.
From the very beginning of the 2024 season, De La Cruz has been a revelation. While expectations were high following a promising rookie year in 2023, few could have predicted just how quickly the young phenom would take over the league. His blend of power, speed, and plate discipline has made him a must-watch player, and his impact on the Reds’ success has been undeniable. As of early May, he leads the team in almost every offensive category, including home runs, RBIs, and stolen bases, while also contributing with a solid batting average and on-base percentage. But it’s not just his stats that are turning heads—it’s the way he plays the game, with an energy and excitement that has injected new life into the Reds’ franchise.
A Historic Start to the Season
De La Cruz’s hot start in 2024 is not just good—it’s historic. As of early May, he’s on pace for a 40-home run season, an impressive feat for a player who hasn’t yet reached his full potential. His slugging percentage ranks among the best in the National League, and his ability to hit for both average and power has made him a legitimate MVP candidate.
Through the first month of the season, De La Cruz has already racked
