Elly De La Cruz Honors Her Sister with Emotional Performance
Amidst profound grief, Dominican shortstop Elly De La Cruz demonstrated his strength and dedication to the sport. Following the passing of his older sister, Genelis de la Cruz Sánchez, the Cincinnati Reds player decided to honor her memory by playing Sunday’s game against the Cubs at Wrigley Field.
Genelis de la Cruz Sánchez passed away after a long battle against health problems. De La Cruz, despite the difficult situation, chose to play, showing admirable fortitude.
The Reds manager, Terry Francona, expressed his unconditional support for the player. “We just told him we’ll support him in whatever he needs to do. He wants to play today and then we’ll see what happens,” Francona commented before the game. De la Cruz preferred to maintain his privacy, without speaking to the media before or after the game.On the field, De La Cruz carried the memory of his sister with him. On the back of his shoes, one could read “RIP Manita” and on his cap, a phrase in Spanish followed by “RIP Genelis”.
Francona highlighted the importance of the situation, stating: “It’s difficult. We care a lot about playing and winning. But suddenly, you’re reminded of what’s really important. I think everyone was very attentive to him today, trying to take care of him.”In his first at-bat, De La Cruz singled to right field. Later, in the sixth inning, with Cincinnati trailing 5-0, he hit a two-run home run, sending the ball 117.4 mph according to Statcast. After the home run, De La Cruz pointed to the sky and made a heart gesture.
Elly De La Cruz hit this home run and pointed to the sky, making a heart gesture.
