Elly De La Cruz Joins the Elite 20-60 Club with 60th Stolen Base
In a thrilling season, Elly De La Cruz, the sensational shortstop for the Cincinnati Reds, has etched his name in Major League Baseball history. With his 60th stolen base achieved during a game in Toronto, De La Cruz joins an elite group of players who have amassed at least 20 home runs and 60 stolen bases in a single season. This accomplishment places him alongside some of the game's legendary figures such as Rickey Henderson, Joe Morgan, and Ronald Acuña Jr.
De La Cruz, just 22 years old, has been nothing short of phenomenal throughout the 2024 season. Not only does he lead the majors in stolen bases, but he has also demonstrated his power at the plate with 21 home runs. This rare combination of speed and power has brought excitement to Reds fans and posed a significant challenge to opposing teams.
Stellar Season Highlights
De La Cruz's journey to the 60-stolen base mark has been a testament to his resilience and skill. Prior to notching his 60th stolen base, he had faced a brief drought, not successfully stealing a base since August 8th. However, his persistence paid off as he secured this milestone on August 21, solidifying his status as one of the premier base thieves in the league.
The significance of his achievement is magnified when considering the exclusivity of the 20-60 club. Only eight seasons in the history of MLB have featured a player reaching this milestone, and De La Cruz's entry into this select group comes with the added distinction of being in the company of five Hall of Famers. Names like Rickey Henderson—who accomplished the feat multiple times—and Joe Morgan, who revolutionized the second baseman position in the 1970s with his blend of power and speed, punctuate the importance of De La Cruz's 2024 campaign.
A Legacy in the Making
What makes De La Cruz's season even more remarkable is the historical context surrounding the 80-steal mark. The last time this level of base-stealing prowess was displayed was back in 1988, when Rickey Henderson and Vince Coleman each stole over 80 bases. While De La Cruz has yet to reach this plateau, his current trajectory certainly draws parallels to some of the game's greatest base runners.
Moreover, being part of the 20-60 club not only highlights De La Cruz's exceptional athletic ability but also places him in the MVP conversation. Among the peers in this exclusive club, three players—Joe Morgan (1976), Rickey Henderson (1990), and Ronald Acuña Jr. (2023)—have earned the MVP award, underscoring how such a stat line often correlates with outstanding overall performance.
The Road Ahead
As the 2024 season progresses, all eyes will be on Elly De La Cruz and his continued impact on the field. His blend of dynamic speed and slugging power makes him a constant threat, both on the bases and at the plate. Reds fans can certainly envision a future where he continues to break records and lead the team to greater heights.
De La Cruz’s meteoric rise serves as a reminder of how young talents can invigorate the sport, bringing fresh energy and an element of unpredictability. His place among the greats of the game appears secure, and his ongoing journey promises to captivate baseball enthusiasts for years to come.
While many factors contribute to a player's success, De La Cruz's hard work, dedication, and natural talent are clear. His achievements this season speak volumes, not only about his abilities but also about his potential to be one of the standout players in the future of Major League Baseball.