Elly De La Cruz Joins Elite Baseball Company with Historic Stolen Base
In a season that continues to turn heads, Elly De La Cruz, the dynamic 22-year-old shortstop for the Cincinnati Reds, has solidified his place among baseball's elite. During a recent game in Toronto, De La Cruz recorded his 60th stolen base of the season, a milestone that places him in an exclusive club of players who have achieved the rare feat of accumulating at least 20 home runs and 60 stolen bases in a single MLB season.
This remarkable achievement underscores De La Cruz's exceptional talent and versatility. Not only does he lead the majors in stolen bases, but he also boasts 21 home runs in the 2024 season. His unique blend of power and speed echoes the performances of some of the game's greatest players.
The "20-60 club" is a prestigious group that includes legends such as Rickey Henderson, Joe Morgan, and Ronald Acuña Jr. Of these, Rickey Henderson—arguably the greatest base stealer in baseball history—accomplished this feat multiple times during his storied career. Joe Morgan, who revolutionized the second baseman position during the 1970s with his extraordinary combination of power and speed, and Ronald Acuña Jr., the reigning MVP, further amplify the significance of De La Cruz's achievement.
Moreover, De La Cruz's milestone is part of an elite narrative in baseball history. Including De La Cruz's current season, only eight times has a player reached the 20-60 milestone. It's worth noting that five of these seasons were accomplished by Hall of Famers, adding to the historical weight of such an accomplishment. The exclusivity of this group is a testament to the incredibly high standards De La Cruz has reached in his budding career.
This landmark stolen base came as a relief for De La Cruz, who had not successfully stolen a base since August 8th. His latest success means more than individual glory; it highlights his relentless drive and dedication. His ability to break such a significant barrier in the midst of the season provides a spark for the Reds as they look to make a push in the latter part of the season.
Another fascinating aspect of De La Cruz's achievement is the context within which it has occurred. The current date is August 21st, giving him ample time to further pad his stats and perhaps even reach the 80-steal mark, a feat last accomplished in 1988 by both Rickey Henderson and Vince Coleman.
Beyond numbers, however, Elly De La Cruz is redefining the role of a shortstop in modern baseball. His ability to combine raw speed with impressive power continues to captivate fans and analysts alike. The young shortstop's path may well draw comparisons to the transformative impact Joe Morgan had on the second baseman position in the 1970s.
Such milestones do more than highlight individual success; they provide a narrative thread through the fabric of baseball history. As De La Cruz continues to etch his name in the annals of the sport, he not only elevates his stature but also contributes to the rich tapestry of records, rivalries, and remarkable achievements that define Major League Baseball.
As the 2024 season progresses, all eyes will undoubtedly remain on Elly De La Cruz. His pursuit of greatness, highlighted by these rare achievements, ensures his performances will be remembered and celebrated for years to come.