The Rising Star: Elly De La Cruz Joins Elite Company with Stolen Base Milestone
In a bright spot for Cincinnati Reds fans and a testament to youthful prowess, Elly De La Cruz has etched his name into baseball’s storied history. The Reds' 22-year-old shortstop added another feather to his cap with his 60th stolen base of the season during a game in Toronto, joining an elite group of players who have managed to achieve at least 20 home runs and 60 stolen bases in a single season.
De La Cruz’s impressive feat places him in the company of baseball legends such as Rickey Henderson, Joe Morgan, and Ronald Acuña Jr. The distinct club boasts just eight seasons in MLB history where a player has reached the 20-60 milestone. Remarkably, these talents excelled in combining power and speed, redefining what is possible on the baseball field.
An Elite Company
Rickey Henderson, known for his electrifying speed and tenacious base running, accomplished the 20-60 feat multiple times throughout his career. Joe Morgan, a Hall of Famer, redefined the second baseman position with his unique blend of power and agility during the 1970s. More recently, Ronald Acuña Jr. joined the club, further emphasizing the rare and exceptional nature of this achievement.
De La Cruz stands not only among these greats but also as a testament to his hard work and dedication. Now leading the majors in stolen bases, his performance marks a high point in the Reds' season and provides baseball enthusiasts with yet another reason to watch the young shortstop in action.
A Season to Remember
The 2024 season has indeed been a memorable one for De La Cruz. With 21 home runs and 60 stolen bases, he has demonstrated both his batting prowess and aggressive base-running tactics. This combination places him as one of the most dynamic players in the league today.
What makes this milestone even more significant is the fact that De La Cruz hadn’t successfully stolen a base since August 8th. His ability to break the dry spell in Toronto showcases his resilience and determination to keep pushing boundaries.
Historical Context
While the 20-60 milestone is extraordinary, it’s essential to acknowledge the historical context. Only five of these outstanding seasons were accomplished by Hall of Famers, emphasizing the level of skill and consistency required to reach such heights. The exemplar standard set by players like Morgan and Henderson serves as a benchmark for current and future generations.
Notably, the last time the 80-steal mark was reached was in 1988 by Rickey Henderson and Vince Coleman, underscoring the changing dynamics of modern baseball. The game has evolved, yet players like De La Cruz continue to inspire with their blend of speed and power.
The MVP Narrative
The linkage between power, speed, and the Most Valuable Player award is evident when examining the 20-60 club. Joe Morgan (1976), Rickey Henderson (1990), and Ronald Acuña Jr. (2023) each earned MVP honors during their respective milestone seasons. This underscores the impact such versatile performance can have on a team’s success and on a player’s recognition in the league.
As of August 21st, De La Cruz’s 2024 campaign appears poised to join those illustrious ranks, adding to the narrative of exceptional young talent reshaping Major League Baseball. For the Reds, and Major League Baseball, Elly De La Cruz is more than just a rising star; he is a beacon of what the sport’s future holds.
As the season progresses, all eyes will be on De La Cruz to see how he continues to lead and elevate his game. His milestones not only bring personal achievements but also inspire a new generation of talent, reminding fans and aspiring players alike of the magic and possibilities inherent in the game of baseball.