Elly De La Cruz Joins Elite Club with 60th Stolen Base
Elly De La Cruz has etched his name into the annals of Major League Baseball history, becoming a member of the exclusive 20-60 club. This exclusive group is reserved for players who have managed to hit at least 20 home runs and steal 60 bases in a single season. De La Cruz, a standout shortstop for the Cincinnati Reds, accomplished this feat during a game in Toronto, marking his 60th stolen base of the season.
At just 22 years old, De La Cruz not only leads the majors in stolen bases but also joins a list featuring some of the game's most iconic figures, including Rickey Henderson, Joe Morgan, and Ronald Acuña Jr. This achievement underscores his prowess on the field and his pivotal role in the Cincinnati Reds' lineup.
Breaking the Stolen Base Drought
Before swiping his 60th base, De La Cruz had experienced a bit of a drought on the base paths. He hadn't successfully stolen a base since August 8th, making his return to form all the more significant. His persistence and resilience highlight the competitive spirit that has driven him to such heights this season.
De La Cruz has not only met but exceeded expectations this year. With 21 home runs and 60 stolen bases, he has redefined what it means to be a dual-threat player in today's game. His contributions are reminiscent of players from a bygone era when speed and power were the hallmarks of baseball's greatest threats.
Following the Legends
The 20-60 club is a rarefied group, with only eight seasons in MLB history featuring this milestone. It's a testament to the unique blend of skills required to achieve such a feat. Five of these milestones were accomplished by Hall of Famers, further underscoring the significance of De La Cruz’s accomplishment.
Rickey Henderson, one of the most prolific base stealers in MLB history, achieved the 20-60 milestone multiple times throughout his illustrious career. Meanwhile, Joe Morgan, renowned for redefining the second baseman position in the 1970s with his exceptional combination of power and speed, joins Henderson in this elite club. The contemporary star Ronald Acuña Jr. mirrors De La Cruz's blend of raw talent and athleticism, having been an MVP and a member of the same club in 2023.
Historical Context and Future Prospects
The last time the 80-steal mark was reached was 1988, achieved by Henderson and Vince Coleman. While De La Cruz's pace may not see him reach that mark, his current season holds significant historical weight. It's worth noting that three MVPs have come from the 20-60 club: Joe Morgan in 1976, Rickey Henderson in 1990, and Ronald Acuña Jr. in 2023. De La Cruz’s inclusion in such a distinguished group bodes well for his future prospects, both in terms of individual accolades and contributions to his team.
As the 2024 season progresses, the eyes of baseball fans and analysts will undoubtedly remain fixed on De La Cruz. Whether he continues to accumulate stolen bases at a record pace or adds more home runs to his tally, his performance will be a crucial barometer for the Cincinnati Reds' success. More importantly, it will serve as another chapter in the story of a young player whose career trajectory seems destined for greatness.
In closing, Elly De La Cruz’s achievement is more than just a personal milestone. It is a reminder of the incredible talent that exists in today’s game and a nod to the legends who have paved the way. As he continues to develop and set new benchmarks, De La Cruz epitomizes the spirit of baseball—a game where history and the future are perpetually intertwined.