Elly De La Cruz reports early: Ready to lead the Reds in 2026

Elly De La Cruz Reports Early to the Reds: Preparing for a Key Season

GOODYEAR, Arizona – Dominican shortstop Elly De La Cruz has begun his preparation for the season ahead of schedule, reporting to the Cincinnati Reds’ camp. The young player, known for his talent, arrived at the training complex and immediately focused on batting practice and improving his defensive fundamentals.

I always come early to be ready from day one.

Elly De La Cruz

Manager Terry Francona had a brief conversation with De La Cruz, anticipating a more detailed discussion about his goals for the season. De La Cruz is preparing for his fourth season in the Major Leagues, following a notable rise since his debut in 2023. Last season, he participated in all 162 games of the regular season, showing a .264 average, a .777 OPS, 22 home runs, 86 RBIs, and 37 stolen bases. During the second half of the year, his production was affected by an injury to his left quadriceps, but De La Cruz assures that he has overcome the discomfort thanks to a strengthening program.

I feel very good. I worked a lot on my legs.

Elly De La Cruz

A notable move in the offseason was the arrival of Venezuelan third baseman Eugenio Suárez, who signed for one year. De La Cruz expressed his enthusiasm for this signing.

It means a lot. He’s a great player and can help us a lot.

Elly De La Cruz

With Suárez on the team, De La Cruz is expected to bat third, with Suárez providing offensive protection. The return of Suárez, who hit 49 home runs between Arizona and Seattle in 2025, will strengthen the Reds’ lineup. Francona highlighted that having more offensive threats will make the team more difficult to face. In addition, he emphasized the importance of De La Cruz’s individual development.

Consistency is key. Your talent is evident, but the more consistent you are, the more your tools will shine.

Terry Francona

After Cincinnati managed to advance to the postseason, the team seeks to advance even further in 2026, with De La Cruz as a fundamental pillar for the present and future of the franchise.