Elly De La Cruz Joins Elite Company with 60th Stolen Base
In the pantheon of baseball’s most electrifying talents, Elly De La Cruz has firmly carved his name. The 22-year-old Reds shortstop reached another milestone in what has been a standout season, achieving his 60th stolen base during a game in Toronto. This feat catapults him into a rarefied league, shared by only a handful of baseball legends.
A Rare Achievement
Elly De La Cruz’s 60th stolen base positions him among an elite group of players who have managed to blend power and speed in a single season. Notably, he has also hit 21 home runs this year, making him a member of the exclusive 20-60 club. This prestigious club includes only Rickey Henderson, Joe Morgan, and Ronald Acuña Jr.
Elly's entry into this club marks one of only eight seasons in MLB history where a player has accomplished this milestone. Hall of Famers achieved five of these remarkable seasons, underscoring the significance of his accomplishment. His stolen base on August 21 reaffirmed his status as a major force on the basepaths and a versatile threat in the game.
Comparisons to Legends
Rickey Henderson, widely regarded as the greatest leadoff hitter in baseball history, accomplished the 20-60 feat multiple times during his career. His combination of speed and power revolutionized the game and set a benchmark for all aspiring base stealers. Joe Morgan, another Hall of Famer, redefined the role of the second baseman during the 1970s with his unique blend of these attributes.
Ronald Acuña Jr. has been a more recent addition to this esteemed club, achieving the milestone in the 2023 season. His entry brought a modern flair to a historic list, which now welcomes Elly De La Cruz as its latest member.
A Season of Excellence
Elly De La Cruz’s 2024 season has been nothing short of remarkable. Leading the majors in stolen bases, he has not only showcased his speed but also demonstrated significant power. Hitting at least 21 home runs this season, he has proven to be a dual-threat that pitchers and catchers have struggled to contain.
Before reaching his 60th stolen base, De La Cruz had not successfully stolen a base since August 8th. This gap highlighted the challenges and pressures of maintaining such an aggressive and high-risk playing style. Yet, he remains relentless and fearless on the basepaths, continually pushing the limits and delivering edge-of-the-seat moments for fans.
Historical Context
The achievement of 60 stolen bases in a season harkens back to an era where speed was a more dominant part of the game. The last time any player came close to the 80-steal mark was in 1988, accomplished by Rickey Henderson and Vince Coleman. While baseball has evolved into a more power-centric game, Elly De La Cruz’s success has revived memories of a faster-paced style of play.
The rarity of the 20-60 club is further highlighted by the fact that three of its members, Joe Morgan (1976), Rickey Henderson (1990), and Ronald Acuña Jr. (2023), were all recognized as MVPs during their milestone seasons. This elite grouping cements De La Cruz’s place among the game's greats and suggests a bright future ahead.
Looking Forward
As of August 21, De La Cruz continues to be a central figure in the Reds’ lineup, providing both offensive power and defensive stability at shortstop. His inclusion in such esteemed company speaks volumes about his abilities and potential. Whether he continues to push the boundaries of his performance this season or sets new records, Elly De La Cruz has already established himself as one of the most dynamic players in today’s game.
With several weeks left in the season, there is still ample opportunity for him to further solidify his legacy. Baseball aficionados will likely be keeping a close watch on his performances, eager to see how far this young star can go. Indeed, Elly De La Cruz’s journey to this point is not just a testament to his talent but also a promising glimpse of what he might achieve in the years to come.