What's Happening?
The Cincinnati Reds have announced their decision to retain Elly De La Cruz as their shortstop, despite his leading the league in errors for the past two seasons. De La Cruz, known for his strong arm and
range, has struggled with fielding consistency, posting 29 errors in 2024 and 26 in 2025. Despite these challenges, the Reds' President of Baseball Operations, Nick Krall, confirmed there are no immediate plans to move him from the position. The team believes his offensive contributions, including over 20 home runs and 100+ runs scored in consecutive seasons, outweigh his defensive shortcomings.
Why It's Important?
The decision to keep De La Cruz at shortstop reflects the Reds' commitment to his development and the value they place on his offensive capabilities. This move could impact the team's defensive strategy and overall performance, as fielding errors can lead to unearned runs. However, De La Cruz's offensive prowess is a significant asset, providing a balance to his defensive liabilities. The decision also affects the team's roster dynamics, as other players like Edwin Arroyo and Matt McLain may have to adjust their roles or positions.
What's Next?
The Reds will likely continue to monitor De La Cruz's performance closely, especially his defensive metrics. If his fielding does not improve, the team may reconsider their decision, potentially moving him to another position like center field, a common transition for infielders with defensive struggles. Additionally, the development of prospects like Edwin Arroyo could influence future decisions regarding the shortstop position. The Reds' management will need to weigh the benefits of De La Cruz's offensive contributions against the potential costs of his defensive errors.
