$150 Million On The Table And The Response Of De la Cruz Said ”Hold.”MLB Was Stunned When The Young Star Turned Huge Offer From The Yankees And Dodgers, Declaring His Lifelong Loyalty To Reds.”I Will Die A Reds Legend,” He Vowed. A Statement That Rocked The League, Stirred Up Social Media, And Reminded Everyone That Loyalty Still Exists In MLB Today

$150 Million On The Table And The Response Of De la Cruz Said ”Hold.”MLB Was Stunned When The Young Star Turned Huge Offer From The Yankees And Dodgers, Declaring His Lifelong Loyalty To Reds.”I Will Die A Reds Legend,” He Vowed. A Statement That Rocked The League, Stirred Up Social Media, And Reminded Everyone That Loyalty Still Exists In MLB Today

Elly De La Cruz’s “love” for the Cincinnati Reds stems from developing an appreciation for the organization, the city, and its fans after signing with the team as an international free agent and joining a lineage of Reds greats. He values the support from fans and the advice he receives from Reds icons like Barry Larkin and Eric Davis, who also mentor him. This growing connection, combined with his natural talent and excitement for the game, allows him to play with pride and give his best effort for the team.
From International Signing to a Cincinnati Connection
A New Beginning:
When De La Cruz first signed with the Reds, he was an international free agent and didn’t know much about the city or the team.
Mentorship and Support:
As he developed within the Reds organization, he became close with influential figures like Barry Larkin and Eric Davis, senior advisors to the team.
Meeting the Legends:
De La Cruz also had the opportunity to meet and connect with other Cincinnati legends, like Pete Rose, and play alongside veteran Joey Votto, who offered him advice during his rookie season.
Appreciation for the Reds Community

Fan Connection:
De La Cruz has grown to appreciate the city of Cincinnati and the way its fans support and cheer for the team, a dynamic that he finds rewarding.
Honoring the Past:
His connection to the team is deepened by his appreciation for the history of Cincinnati Reds baseball and the iconic players who came before him, like Vada Pinson and Eric Davis, who he compares himself to in terms of performance.
A Deep Investment in the Team’s Success
Playing with Pride:
De La Cruz’s connection extends to a desire to give everything he has for the Reds.
A “Big Kid” Mentality:
He is described as a “big kid” who plays with a lot of joy and can be a “clubhouse pest,” but this fun-loving side belies a serious commitment to winning.
Wanting the Best for the Team:
He genuinely wants the best for the Cincinnati Reds, recognizing that his personal best gives the team the best chance to succeed.