Elly De La Cruz: 2024 Cincinnati Reds MVP
In 2024, Elly De La Cruz emerged as the Cincinnati Reds’ Most Valuable Player (MVP), as voted by the local chapter of the Baseball Writers Association of America (BBWAA). This recognition marked a milestone in the young player’s burgeoning career, solidifying his place as one of the most electrifying talents in Major League Baseball (MLB). The story of how De La Cruz captured this honor is not just about his remarkable on-field performance, but also about the excitement and energy he injected into a team that has been on the rise and hungry for success.
The Rise of Elly De La Cruz
Elly De La Cruz, born on January 11, 2002, in the Dominican Republic, was a relative unknown in the early days of his professional career, but his meteoric rise through the Cincinnati Reds’ minor league system has been nothing short of extraordinary. De La Cruz’s potential was evident from the moment he was signed by the Reds in 2018. His combination of raw power, speed, and fielding ability made him a standout prospect, and scouts quickly took notice.
His speed is particularly striking, with De La Cruz often described as a rare blend of power and athleticism, which is typically hard to come by in a single player. This combination of traits set the stage for his eventual debut in MLB, which took place in 2023. In just a short amount of time, De La Cruz turned heads with his bat, glove, and incredible speed, becoming an indispensable part of the Reds’ lineup.
A Breakout 2024 Season
By the time 2024 rolled around, De La Cruz had established himself as one of the brightest young stars in the league. The 2024 season marked a new level of success for both the player and the team. The Reds, a franchise known for its storied history and recent rebuilding phases, were poised to return to contention in the National League Central. A large part of that optimism was rooted in De La Cruz’s ability to contribute in every facet of the game.
De La Cruz’s 2024 season was a statistical showcase. He played in 155 games for the Reds and finished with an impressive .312 batting average, 34 home runs, and 102 RBIs. These numbers alone would have made him an MVP candidate, but it was the way he contributed to the team’s success in other areas that set him apart. De La Cruz’s 50 stolen bases demonstrated his unparalleled speed, which made him a constant threat on the basepaths and helped drive the Reds’ aggressive, dynamic style of play.
But beyond the raw numbers, De La Cruz’s presence on the field was what truly distinguished him. He made several game-changing plays with his glove, showcasing his athleticism and versatility. Whether it was making a spectacular diving stop at shortstop or displaying his rocket arm to throw out runners, De La Cruz was as much of a defensive asset as he was an offensive powerhouse.
One of the most exciting aspects of his game was his ability to hit for both power and average, something that is rare in today’s MLB. Many young players who hit for power tend to struggle with consistency at the plate, but De La Cruz was the rare exception. His ability to hit for contact while still launching 30-plus home runs a year made him one of the most well-rounded players in the game.
The Impact on the Reds
As the season progressed, it became clear that De La Cruz’s MVP candidacy wasn’t just about his personal achievements—it was about how his performance had transformed the Reds as a whole. In 2024, the Reds took a massive leap forward in the standings, with De La Cruz at the heart of their success. His leadership, both on and off the field, galvanized the young team, providing a spark for the franchise’s future.
De La Cruz’s ability to rise to the occasion in clutch moments made him a fan favorite. He had several walk-off hits and key moments in the late innings that showcased his poise under pressure. But perhaps even more impressive was his role in mentoring younger teammates and setting the tone for the next generation of Reds players. His infectious enthusiasm and work ethic were contagious, and it became evident that De La Cruz was not only a star but also a leader in the clubhouse.
While much of the focus was on his offensive numbers, De La Cruz’s presence in the field also brought stability to a Reds infield that had previously been in flux. His dynamic play at shortstop, combined with his ability to cover ground, gave the team a level of confidence they hadn’t had in years. His leadership was invaluable to the Reds’ pitching staff, as well, as his ability to make plays behind them helped keep opposing teams from stringing together big innings.
The BBWAA MVP Voting
The MVP voting process by the BBWAA is one of the most prestigious ways a player can be recognized for their outstanding performance over the course of a season. The voting panel is comprised of a select group of baseball writers from various regions of the country, and the award is typically given to the player who has had the most significant impact on their team’s success.
In 2024, De La Cruz’s candidacy was bolstered not only by his individual numbers but also by the Reds’ resurgence as a playoff contender. While other players in the league had impressive campaigns, De La Cruz’s well-rounded ability to impact every game from start to finish set him apart. His ability to combine speed, power, and defense made him a player of unique value. It was clear to the writers who voted for him that De La Cruz was not only the best player on the Reds but also one of the most dynamic and exciting players in the entire league.
The BBWAA voting results for the 2024 Cincinnati Reds MVP reflected this consensus, with De La Cruz earning the honor with a commanding vote. The award was not just a personal triumph but a recognition of the new era of Reds baseball that he was leading. The MVP honor was a testament to his hard work, perseverance, and commitment to excellence.
What’s Next for Elly De La Cruz?
As the 2024 MVP award was presented to De La Cruz, many in Cincinnati—and around the league—were left wondering what the future holds for this exceptional young player. His achievements in 2024 laid the foundation for what could be a Hall of Fame career, assuming he continues on his current trajectory. De La Cruz’s combination of power, speed, and defensive acumen is rare, and it’s clear that he has the potential to be one of the game’s greats.
The Reds’ future looks incredibly bright with De La Cruz leading the charge, and the 2024 MVP award is just one step in what could be a long and successful career. The Reds’ fanbase is hopeful that De La Cruz’s continued development will help lead the team back to prominence in the postseason, and perhaps even to a World Series title.
In the end, the 2024 MVP award is not just a reflection of De La Cruz’s individual brilliance; it’s a symbol of the Reds’ resurgence as a team. With De La Cruz at the helm, the future looks incredibly promising for both the player and the franchise as they look to build on their recent success and return to their place among baseball’s elite teams.
