Elly De La Cruz’s dazzling first month with the Reds quickly made him a recognized name around MLB, a buzz that, amazingly, led to the rookie sensation receiving an invitation to the 2023 Home Run Derby.
Cincinnati and MLB fans hoping to see De La Cruz join the star-studded lineup, however, were disappointed to learn Monday that the 21-year-old slugger currently has no plans to compete in Seattle. Speaking to the media before his 24th career game, De La Cruz confirmed the invite for the July 10 Derby before announcing he declined to participate in this year’s All-Star festivities at T-Mobile Park due to his commitment to the Reds.
“I’d rather focus on this season and make sure I’m able to contribute to this team and help this team win,” De La Cruz said through team interpreter Jorge Merlos, per Gordon Wittenmyer of Cincinnati.com.
While some may argue the invite was premature, De La Cruz opting to skip the Derby will certainly be a bummer for hordes of fans. But, while the anticipated event could’ve been a nice showcase for him to continue his debut season, it’s hard to argue with his reasoning.
Entering Monday’s contest against the Nationals, De La Cruz sought to extend his momentum coming off a week where he was named National League Player of the Week after hitting for the cycle against the Braves.
On the year, De La Cruz has logged 22 hits, three home runs—including a 458-foot bomb in his second game—12 RBIs and nine stolen bases. His play helped elevate the Reds (45–39) into second place in the NL Central, a run that’s seen the team go 17–6, with a 12-game winning streak since calling De La Cruz up on June 6.
