Elly De La Cruz Homer: Reds Star Plays After Loss
- Chicago — Cincinnati Reds shortstop Elly De La cruz played Sunday's game against the Chicago Cubs with a heavy heart, following the death of his sister, Genelis.
- De La Cruz's emotional day included a two-run homer in the Reds' 7-3 loss to the Cubs.
- After his home run, De la Cruz tapped his chest, pointed skyward, clapped, and made a heart shape with his hands as he crossed home plate, honoring his...
Elly De La Cruz, Cincinnati Reds star, powerfully honored his late sister with a two-run home run against the Chicago Cubs, playing through immense personal grief after her passing. Despite the Reds’ 7-3 loss, De La Cruz’s determination to play, highlighted by manager Terry Francona, showcased his strength and the team’s support.This emotional game featured a 423-foot homer and a first-inning single from the shortstop. News Directory 3 reports on the poignant day. Discover what’s next for the grieving star and the Reds.
Elly De La Cruz Plays Through Grief, honors late Sister with Home Run
Updated June 02, 2025
Chicago — Cincinnati Reds shortstop Elly De La cruz played Sunday’s game against the Chicago Cubs with a heavy heart, following the death of his sister, Genelis. Despite the personal loss, the 23-year-old insisted on being in the lineup, according to manager Terry Francona.
De La Cruz’s emotional day included a two-run homer in the Reds’ 7-3 loss to the Cubs. Francona noted De La Cruz’s determination to play in the series finale, adding that the team supported his decision.
After his home run, De la Cruz tapped his chest, pointed skyward, clapped, and made a heart shape with his hands as he crossed home plate, honoring his sister.
Family sources in the Dominican Republic confirmed that Genelis De La Cruz died Saturday after battling health issues. Elly De La cruz chose not to speak with reporters after the game, and the Reds respected his privacy by declining to provide further details.
“We care so much about playing a game and winning,” Francona said, ”but in a hurry, you’re reminded of what’s really important. So I think everybody kind of kept their head on a swivel with him today, just trying to take care of him.”
De La Cruz also singled in the first inning and later scored on a sacrifice fly by Tyler Stephenson in the ninth. His sixth-inning home run was estimated at 423 feet.
What’s next
The Cincinnati Reds will evaluate Elly De La Cruz’s situation and provide support as he grieves the loss of his sister. The team’s focus remains on supporting their shortstop during this difficult time.