Just In: Cincinnati Reds Confirms Strong Roster Decision Regarding Top Talented All-Star Playmaker Ahead Of Postseason.
Reds Confirm Strong Roster Decision Regarding Elly De La Cruz Ahead of Postseason Push
**Cincinnati, OH** — As the postseason push tightens, the Cincinnati Reds have made a clear and high‑stakes decision concerning one of their brightest young stars, shortstop and All‑Star **Elly De La Cruz**. The club is signaling that he will remain firmly at shortstop, batting in a protected spot in the lineup, and being treated as a central piece in their playoff aspirations.
#### What We Know
1. **Elly De La Cruz is the present *and* future at shortstop**
The Reds have publicly confirmed that De La Cruz will *not* be moved off shortstop. Despite defensive rough patches, including leading the league in errors, the club and its new manager, Terry Francona, have expressed that his defensive metrics and range make him the best option at the position. ([SI][1])
2. **Long‑Term Extension Talks but No Deal Yet**
The front office has reportedly engaged with De La Cruz’s representation about a long‑term contract. However, as of latest reports, **no extension is currently agreed upon**. This means that, for the moment, De La Cruz remains under team control but without the financial security of a long‑term deal. ([MLB Trade Rumors][2])
3. **Batting Order Placement: Third Spot**
With the goal of maximizing his impact in high‑leverage situations, the club has decided to slot De La Cruz into the **No. 3 spot** in the batting order. This demonstrates a vote of confidence: they’re putting their All‑Star in a position to drive in runs, with batters both ahead and behind him who can put runners on base. Francona has stated that he agrees with this placement. ([SI][3])
4. **Recent Move Down the Order Suggesting Adjustments**
As the season progressed, though, there have been signs that adjustments are being made. After a lengthy stretch of batting third and starting nearly every game, De La Cruz was dropped down in the order (to 7th) for the first time all season. This appears to be a strategic move by Francona to shake things up as the team tries to stem offensive struggles and preserve momentum in the postseason race. ([Athlon Sports][4])
#### What It Means
* **Faith in De La Cruz as a Core Piece**
By refusing to shift him from shortstop, and by keeping him in the heart of the lineup (even if adjustments are made), the Reds are making it clear they see him as a cornerstone for both current success and future competitiveness.
* **Balancing Pressure and Performance**
The decision also reflects a tension: De La Cruz has had a historic season (for example, joining the 20‑50 club in 2024) and is one of the most exciting young players in the league, but he has had stretches of offensive slump and defensive inconsistency. Moving him in the order temporarily suggests the coaching staff is trying to reduce pressure or retool matchups to give him a better chance to produce.
* **Roster Stability vs. Flexibility**
With the postseason in view, keeping De La Cruz in a familiar role provides stability. But the move to drop him in the lineup also shows willingness to be flexible. That suggests the Reds are not just sticking with hope, but reacting to performance, looking for the best chance to win games.
#### What’s Still Unresolved
* **Contract Status**: Without a long‑term extension, there remains uncertainty over how De La Cruz might factor into payroll and roster decisions beyond his controlled years.
* **Defensive Consistency**: Errors and defensive misplays remain a concern. The Reds will need improvement from him in that department if they want him to be more than just a bat, especially in tight postseason games.
* **Supporting Cast**: His effectiveness will depend on who is batting in front and behind him, the stability of the rotation and bullpen, and contributions from other young players. If they can’t get enough around him, even his MVP‑level potential may not suffice.
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### Bottom Line
Cincinnati has made a strong and public decision: **Elly De La Cruz remains their shortstop, hitting near the heart of the order**, and is central to their postseason strategy. They believe that his offensive upside, athletic tools, and raw talent give them their best shot. But with that belief comes the pressure to adjust — whether that’s order changes, defensive improvements, or reinforcements from elsewhere on the roster.
If De La Cruz and the Reds can ride that momentum, this decision could pay off. If not, they’ll need to further tweak before the playoffs begin in earnest.
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