What's Happening?
The Cincinnati Reds are evaluating the future position of Elly De La Cruz, who has led Major League Baseball in errors for the past two seasons. Despite his defensive struggles, Reds' General Manager Nick
Krall has stated there are no immediate plans to move De La Cruz from shortstop. At 23 years old, De La Cruz has played 382 games at shortstop, but his defensive performance has been impacted by leg issues and offensive slumps. The Reds are considering various options, including moving De La Cruz to centerfield, but are not rushing the decision.
Why It's Important?
The decision regarding De La Cruz's position is crucial for the Reds as they aim to optimize their roster for future success. De La Cruz's potential move could impact the team's defensive alignment and influence the development of other players, such as Matt McLain and Edwin Arroyo. The Reds' approach to handling De La Cruz's position reflects broader challenges in player development and roster management, particularly for teams with young, talented players who have yet to reach their full potential.
What's Next?
The Reds will continue to assess De La Cruz's performance and development, particularly his defensive capabilities, during the 2026 season. If De La Cruz does not show improvement, the team may explore alternative positions or consider promoting other prospects. The decision will likely involve input from coaching staff and player development experts, aiming to balance immediate needs with long-term strategic goals.
