Elly De La Cruz: A Home Run Amid Heartbreak
On a somber Sunday afternoon at Wrigley Field, Cincinnati Reds’ shortstop Elly De La Cruz stepped onto the field carrying a heavy heart. Just a day prior, he had received the devastating news of his older sister Genelis’s passing after a prolonged illness. Despite the profound personal loss, the 23-year-old insisted on playing in the final game of the weekend series against the Chicago Cubs.
Manager Terry Francona, acknowledging De La Cruz’s determination, stated, “We care so much about playing a game and winning, but in a hurry, you’re reminded of what’s really important. So I think everybody kind of kept their head on a swivel with him today, just trying to take care of him.”
Swinging Through Sorrow: De La Cruz’s Tribute to His Sister
De La Cruz’s performance was nothing short of remarkable. In the sixth inning, he launched a towering two-run homer—his 50th career home run—into the stands. As he rounded the bases, he patted his chest, pointed skyward, and clapped, culminating with a heart-shaped gesture upon touching home plate. This poignant tribute resonated deeply with fans and teammates alike.
Earlier in the game, De La Cruz had singled in the first inning and flied out in the fourth. He later walked and scored on Tyler Stephenson’s sacrifice fly in the ninth. Despite his personal achievements, the Reds fell to the Cubs with a final score of 7-3.
From Grief to Glory: Elly De La Cruz’s Emotional Game
Family members in the Dominican Republic confirmed Genelis’s death to Z101 Digital, noting her prolonged health struggles. Respecting De La Cruz’s wishes, the Reds declined to provide further details, and he chose not to speak with reporters post-game.
De La Cruz’s commitment to the game, even in the face of personal tragedy, underscores his resilience and dedication. Francona remarked, “He takes so much pride in being available. Guys like that, Carlos Santana in Cleveland was very similar, and for a kid that’s that young, that’s an admirable trait.”
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Baseball and Bereavement: De La Cruz’s Poignant Performance
This emotional game adds another chapter to De La Cruz’s burgeoning career. Since his MLB debut on June 6, 2023, he has consistently showcased his exceptional talent. Notably, on June 7, 2023, he hit a 458-foot home run against the Los Angeles Dodgers, marking his first major league homer. The ball left his bat at 114.8 mph, landing in the last rows of the right-field stands at Great American Ball Park .
In his rookie season, De La Cruz hit 13 home runs and seven triples in his first 388 at-bats, while also striking out 144 times towards a .235 batting average. He swiped 35 bases on 43 steal attempts total .
The 2024 season saw De La Cruz joining the exclusive 20/60 club, becoming the first shortstop in Major League history to hit at least 20 home runs and steal 60 bases in a season .
As the 2025 season progresses, De La Cruz continues to impress. On May 11, he became the first player in Major League history with 115 extra-base hits and 115 stolen bases through his first 300 games since 1900 .
Elly De La Cruz’s journey is a testament to his unwavering spirit and dedication. His ability to channel personal grief into a powerful performance on the field serves as an inspiration, reminding us all of the profound connection between passion and perseverance.
Read More: Reds’ Elly De La Cruz homers after learning of sister’s death