Elly⁣ De La Cruz Honors Sister’s Memory with Home Run

Updated June 02, 2025
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Cincinnati Reds ⁢shortstop⁢ Elly⁣ De La Cruz played Sunday against the Chicago Cubs after learning of his older sister’s death, Genelis De La cruz Sanchez. He⁢ honored her ⁢memory with his gear ⁤and his performance.

De La Cruz, visibly emotional, had “RIP” inscribed on his cleats and hat. Before his first at-bat, he paused to compose himself before ⁣singling against Cubs starter Jameson Taillon. ⁣In the sixth inning, De La Cruz hit his 12th ‍home run of the season,‍ pointing to the ⁣sky and making a heart gesture as he crossed home plate.

Reds manager Terry Francona ⁤said De La ⁤Cruz insisted on⁣ playing. The team supported his decision. “We just told him we will support whatever ⁤he needs to do,” Francona⁣ said. “He wants to play today and then‍ we’ll go from there.”

Reports from the Dominican Republic ⁣indicated that Genelis had⁤ died after ⁢a long illness.

MLB’s collective bargaining agreement allows players bereavement leave for three ⁤to seven days.⁢ It remains unclear‍ if De La Cruz will use this option.

Before Sunday’s game, De La Cruz was batting .252 with 11 home runs, 40 RBIs, and 17 stolen bases. He finished eighth in National League MVP voting‍ last year, recording 25 home runs and ⁢67 stolen bases.

The Cubs defeated the Reds ⁣7-3 on Sunday.

What’s⁤ next

The⁣ Reds will evaluate Elly De la Cruz’s situation⁣ and provide support as he decides whether to take bereavement leave. The team will adjust its lineup accordingly for upcoming games.