Elly De La Cruz to Join Elite Ranks with Bonds, Ohtani
Elly De La Cruz enters the season as Cincinnati’s most electrifying young infielder. He flashed star potential early last year before an injury interrupted his momentum.
Midseason injury and missed power
De La Cruz suffered a quad issue around the season’s midpoint. He slumped after the injury and lost much of his power.
Through his first 97 games last season, he had 18 home runs. He added only a few homers after the injury.
Speed remains an elite weapon
The shortstop has elite base-running ability. In 2024, his last fully healthy campaign, he nearly stole 70 bases.
That form suggests 40 stolen bases would be realistic if he stays healthy. His explosiveness on the bases is a core strength.
Bold projection from TJStats
Analyst Thomas Nestico of TJStats included De La Cruz in a list of bold team predictions. Nestico forecasted a 40-home-run, 40-steal season.
Such a season would join a tiny group of 40/40 performers. Observers now debate whether Cincinnati’s home park will help that chase.
How it could happen
Health is the first requirement. A full offseason of recovery could restore his prior pop and burst.
Increasing launch angle and pulling the ball more often would boost home-run totals. The home ballpark can also aid power numbers.
Historic context
Only a handful of players have logged 40 homers and 40 steals in one year. It remains one of baseball’s rare feats.
- Barry Bonds
- Shohei Ohtani
- Ronald Acuña Jr.
- Alex Rodriguez
- Alfonso Soriano
- Jose Canseco
Some analysts now argue Elly De La Cruz to Join Elite Ranks with Bonds, Ohtani if he maintains health and adjusts his approach. The possibility is bold, but not implausible.
On March 26, 2026, De La Cruz appeared in Cincinnati against Boston at Great American Ball Park. He reacted after a single during that game.
Filmogaz.com will follow his progress closely. Expect regular updates on his health and performance during the season.
