Elly De La Cruz, a switch-hitting infielder for the Cincinnati Reds, has made significant improvements as a right-handed hitter in his fourth Major League season. Following a brief stint on the injured list due to a hamstring strain, he returned to the lineup and showcased his evolution at the plate. In 2026, De La Cruz has transformed his right-handed hitting performance, seeing a major increase in slugging and production, crucial for the Reds鈥� NL Wild Card chase.

By the Numbers
  • De La Cruz鈥檚 OPS as a right-handed batter improved from .606 (2023-25) to .848 in 2026, ranking him 12th in MLB.
  • His hard-hit rate jumped from 34.1% to 59.1% over a one-year span.
State of Play
  • The Reds currently rely on De La Cruz to reinvigorate their offense and maintain momentum in the playoff race.
  • De La Cruz鈥檚 ground ball rate as a right-handed hitter is below 50% for the first time in his career (45.7%).
What's Next

As De La Cruz continues to adapt and refine his skills, he will play a pivotal role in the Reds' lineup, significantly impacting their performance in upcoming games. Continued improvement in his right-handed hitting could enhance Cleveland's playoff aspirations.

Bottom Line

Elly De La Cruz鈥檚 transformation into a more proficient right-handed hitter presents him as a critical asset for the Reds. His ability to drive the ball and adapt his approach could prove essential for Cincinnati鈥檚 success as they aim for a playoff berth.