Upon her arrival in the Majors in 2023, Elly De La Cruz quickly became known to baseball fans. The Reds shortstop, who looks like a specimen created in a laboratory, made an impression with the raw power of his game.
Whether it's the force with which he hits a ball, the power of his relays or his pure speed on the trails, he is an extremely spectacular player.
As for statistics, it hasn't been perfect (hitting line of .235/.300/.410), but it's far from catastrophic for a 21-year-old rookie.
However, when we watch him play, we can wonder if his future really lies at shortstop. After all, he's built like an outfielder, and despite his spectacular plays at the #6 position, one wonders if his future doesn't lie elsewhere.
And the good news for the Reds is that EDLC is ready to change position in 2024 to help the club. This is what he revealed to Charlie Goldsmith, of Cincinnati Enquirer.
In 2023, his defensive metrics were much more encouraging at third base, so that's an avenue that could be considered. But for De La Cruz, as long as he can play as often as possible and help the Reds, he's willing to play anywhere.
And with congestion in the Reds infield, he may be forced to focus on his versatility to get playing time. Jonathan India could be traded, but even so, the presence of Matt McLain, Noelvi Marte, Christian Encarnacion-Strand and Jeimer Candelario ensure that there are already quite a few people there.
De La Cruz may get his opportunities at shortstop and third base, but I expect to see the Reds get creative and try to use him in every way. The youngster's speed and arm ensure that he has the tools to excel in the outfield, and I dare to believe that we will try the experiment.
This will be continued, therefore, but expect to see EDLC be versatile on defense in 2024. And since it doesn't seem to bother him, everyone wins.
