Elly De La Cruz's Historic 60th Stolen Base
Elly De La Cruz has firmly etched his name in the annals of baseball history following his recent performance that saw him achieve his 60th stolen base of the season. The Cincinnati Reds' dynamic 22-year-old shortstop joined an elite group of players thanks to his unprecedented blend of speed and power. This remarkable feat was accomplished during a game in Toronto, ending a brief drought since he last successfully stole a base on August 8th.
A Rare Achievement
De La Cruz’s 60th stolen base not only solidifies his position as the league leader in stolen bases but also makes him a member of the exclusive 20-60 club. The club, which includes the legendary Rickey Henderson, Joe Morgan, and recent addition Ronald Acuña Jr., recognizes players who have managed to hit at least 20 home runs and steal 60 bases within a single season. De La Cruz has notched 21 home runs in the 2024 season, adding his name to this illustrious list.
To put this achievement into perspective, only eight seasons in Major League Baseball history have featured a player reaching the 20-60 milestone. The significance of this milestone is further underscored by the fact that five of these seasons were performed by players now enshrined in the Hall of Fame. Among the trio of current 20-60 club members who have won an MVP award, Joe Morgan (1976), Rickey Henderson (1990), and Ronald Acuña Jr. (2023) stand out. Joe Morgan was particularly renowned for redefining the second baseman position with his unique combination of power and speed during the 1970s.
The Legacy of Speed
Rickey Henderson, often considered the epitome of base-stealing prowess, achieved the 20-60 feat multiple times throughout his storied career. His ability to dominate on the base paths has set the bar for base stealers in the modern era. The last time any player reached the 80-stolen base mark was in 1988, a milestone achieved by both Henderson and Vince Coleman, further emphasizing the rarity of high stolen base totals in recent years.
Elly De La Cruz’s impressive season is all the more noteworthy given this historical context. His blend of athleticism and baseball acumen echoes the hallmarks of the game's speed legends. While his recent milestone has undoubtedly placed him among the sport's elite, his potential for future seasons holds much promise for fans and analysts alike.
Looking Forward
As of August 21, De La Cruz has set a high bar for himself and other aspiring base stealers. His accomplishments have not only provided a spark for the Reds but also brought renewed interest to the art of base stealing, an aspect of the game often overshadowed by the focus on power hitting. With each game, De La Cruz continues to build on his legacy, inspiring a new generation of players who look to emulate his rare combination of speed and power.
In summary, Elly De La Cruz’s milestone of reaching 60 stolen bases, paired with his 21 home runs, is a testament to his talent and determination. By joining the ranks of players like Henderson, Morgan, and Acuña Jr., De La Cruz has proven that the spirit of the game’s greatest base stealers endures. Fans eagerly await his next move, as he no doubt has more historical milestones in his sight.