De La Cruz’s Spectacular Performance Seals Reds’ Victory

In a thrilling display of skill and strategy, Elly De La Cruz cracked a two-run triple in the suspense-filled 10th inning, shattering a deadlocked game and leading the Cincinnati Reds to a triumphant 3-0 shutout against the Chicago Cubs last Sunday.

Deciding Moments: De La Cruz’s Triple and Stephenson’s Single

After Luke Maile’s single and Jonathan India’s walk, De La Cruz faced Ethan Roberts (1-1) and delivered the decisive hit down the right field line on an 0-2 count, sparking the Reds’ victory. Following De La Cruz’s lead, Tyler Stephenson stepped up, driving in De La Cruz with a single to center and helping the Reds snap a five-game losing streak.

Reds’ Interim Manager Expresses Confidence in De La Cruz

Freddie Benavides, the Reds’ interim manager, praised De La Cruz for his game-changing performance, stating, “Elly had assured us of a win today, and he did not disappoint.” The Reds had previously struggled to score in the first two games of the series.

Tony Santillan (3-3) claimed the win, while Buck Farmer rounded off the 10th inning, earning his maiden save. On the other side, the Cubs, despite aiming for a sweep of the Reds, could only muster three hits, with Cody Bellinger and Dansby Swanson sitting out the game.

Highlight: De La Cruz’s Stolen Bases Record

De La Cruz showcased his speed and agility, adding two stolen bases to his record, concluding the season with an MLB-leading 67. This feat marked him as the first Cincinnati player to lead the majors in steals since Bobby Tolan’s 57 in 1970.

De La Cruz, after appearing in his 160th game, stated, “I feel good about this year, really good. I feel proud to keep my body safe and be able to play every day.”

Reds and Cubs: Looking Back at the Season

The Reds closed the season with a 77-85 record, a five-win drop from the previous year, continuing their decade-long struggle to achieve back-to-back winning seasons. The offseason will also see the Reds searching for a new manager to replace David Bell, who was let go after six seasons.

On the other side, the Cubs matched their previous season’s 83-79 record. Luis Vazquez celebrated his first career hit for Chicago in this game.

A Look Ahead: Reds and Cubs’ Spring Season

The Reds will kick off their spring season on February 22 with a split-squad visit from Cleveland and a trip to Milwaukee’s training complex. Meanwhile, the Cubs will start their exhibition schedule with a game at the Los Angeles Dodgers’ complex on February 20.