Elly De La Cruz Hits 20 Homers and Steals 60 Bases
- Cincinnati shortstop Elly De La Cruz achieves a rare feat in baseball history.
- He becomes the fifth player since 1901 to hit 20 home runs and steal 60 bases in a single season.
- De La Cruz joins an elite group of players with exceptional speed and power on the field.
TORONTO (AP) — In a remarkable display of athleticism, Cincinnati Reds shortstop Elly De La Cruz achieved a significant milestone on Wednesday night by stealing his 60th base of the season. This accomplishment places him among an elite group of players, as he becomes only the fifth individual since 1901 to record at least 20 home runs and 60 stolen bases in a single season. De La Cruz's pivotal steal of third base in the fifth inning contributed to his team's efforts in a closely contested game against the Toronto Blue Jays. De La Cruz's performance not only highlights his speed and power but also aligns him with notable players in baseball history. Last season, Atlanta Braves star Ronald Acuña Jr. joined this exclusive club, finishing with 41 home runs and 73 stolen bases. Acuña's achievement marked the first time since Hall of Famer Rickey Henderson accomplished the feat in 1990, who had previously done so in both 1985 and 1986. The Reds' shortstop is now the third player from Cincinnati to reach this milestone. Hall of Famer Joe Morgan was the first to achieve a 20-homer, 60-steal season in 1973, hitting 26 home runs and stealing 67 bases. Morgan repeated this impressive feat in 1976, further solidifying his legacy in the sport. De La Cruz's historic season not only showcases his individual talent but also adds to the rich history of the Cincinnati Reds and the legacy of power-speed combinations in Major League Baseball.