Cincinnati Reds shortstop Elly De La Cruz took the field with a heavy heart on Sunday afternoon, choosing to play just hours after learning of his sister’s passing. The 23-year-old speed phenom delivered a poignant tribute in the form of a two-run home run, his 12th of the season and the 50th of his young MLB career, in the Reds’ 7-3 loss to the Chicago Cubs at Great American Ball Park.
Despite the emotional toll, De La Cruz was adamant about remaining in the lineup for the series finale. Reds manager Terry Francona revealed that De La Cruz made it clear he wanted to play, and the clubhouse rallied around him in full support.
“We care so much about playing a game and winning,” Francona said postgame. “But in a hurry, you’re reminded of what’s really important. I think everybody kind of kept their head on a swivel with him today, just trying to take care of him.”
After launching a towering 423-foot blast to right-center in the bottom of the sixth, De La Cruz made a heartfelt gesture as he rounded the bases, patting his chest, pointing skyward, and clapping as he approached home plate. After crossing the dish, he formed a heart shape with his hands in a visible, emotional moment of remembrance.
The home run was not his only contribution on the day. De La Cruz started strong with a single in the first inning, flew out in the fourth, and later drew a walk and came around to score on a Tyler Stephenson sacrifice fly in the ninth. He finished the game 2-for-4 with two runs scored and two RBIs.
Family members in the Dominican Republic confirmed to Z101 Digital that De La Cruz’s older sister, Genelis, passed away Saturday after a prolonged battle with health issues. De La Cruz, understandably, chose not to speak with the media following Sunday’s game, and the Reds organization declined to provide additional details, honoring his request for privacy.
Francona, who has long praised De La Cruz’s grit and professionalism, highlighted the infielder’s deep sense of responsibility and leadership.
“He takes so much pride in being available,” said Francona. “Guys like that—Carlos Santana in Cleveland was very similar. And for a kid that’s that young, that’s an admirable trait.”
Through all the highs and lows of a 162-game season, it’s moments like these that remind players, coaches, and fans alike of the deeper human stories behind the game. And on Sunday, Elly De La Cruz reminded us all that baseball can be both a sanctuary and a stage for the most heartfelt tributes.