Elly De La Cruz Joins the Exclusive 20-60 Club
On August 21, in a game that saw the Reds take on the Blue Jays in Toronto, 22-year-old phenom Elly De La Cruz reached a milestone that firmly cements his status as one of the most electrifying talents in baseball today. With his 60th stolen base, De La Cruz joined the rarified air of the 20-60 club, a fraternity that recognizes players who have achieved at least 20 home runs and 60 stolen bases in a single season.
A Club For The Ages
The 20-60 club is an exclusive list that features some of the greatest athletes in MLB history. Until now, only eight seasons have ever seen a player reach this milestone. De La Cruz's 60th stolen base, combined with his 21 home runs this season, places him alongside luminaries such as Rickey Henderson, Joe Morgan, and Ronald Acuña Jr. Notably, Henderson achieved this incredible feat multiple times throughout his illustrious career.
Joe Morgan, who revolutionized the second baseman position in the 1970s with a blend of speed and power, also finds his name on this distinguished list. Morgan's 20-60 season is a testament to his transformative impact on the game, showcasing how a player can dominate both the base paths and the batter's box.
Leading The Majors
Elly De La Cruz currently leads the majors in stolen bases, a title he has held consistently throughout the 2024 season. His speed on the bases, coupled with his power at the plate, has made him a force to be reckoned with. Despite a brief hiatus since August 8th in successfully stealing a base, De La Cruz broke through once more with his 60th stolen base in Toronto, showcasing his resilience and determination.
"Elly De La Cruz is redefining what it means to be a modern baseball player," said Reds manager, encapsulating the sentiment around the league. "His ability to combine power and speed is reminiscent of the greats, and he’s just getting started."
A Season For The Record Books
The last time the MLB witnessed the 80-steal mark was way back in 1988, achieved by Rickey Henderson and Vince Coleman. While De La Cruz has already etched his name in the history books, surpassing 60 stolen bases, getting to 80 would place him in yet another exclusive club. This young star’s potential to continually break records seems boundless, making each Reds game a must-watch event for baseball enthusiasts.
It’s no small feat to mention the MVPs within the 20-60 club. Morgan earned the prestigious award in 1976, Henderson in 1990, and most recently, Acuña in 2023. These players have set a high bar, but De La Cruz's current trajectory suggests he might soon fit this mold of greatness, if not in this season, then certainly in his promising career ahead.
Conclusion
Elly De La Cruz’s 2024 season stats are not merely numbers; they are resonant echoes of baseball's storied past and bright indicators of its future. With 21 home runs and 60 stolen bases, the young Reds shortstop joins an elite group of players who have left an indelible mark on the game. His talent, work ethic, and sheer determination are paving a thrilling path forward, promising more milestones and plenty of excitement for fans and fellow athletes alike.