Cincinnati Reds shortstop Elly De La Cruz took the field on Sunday under tragic circumstances, just a day after learning that his older sister, Genelis De La Cruz Sanchez, had passed away. Despite the heartbreaking news, the 23-year-old chose to play in the series finale against the Chicago Cubs, demonstrating strength and emotional courage in the face of personal loss.
In a poignant tribute, De La Cruz inscribed “RIP” on both his cleats and his hat before taking the field. His actions spoke volumes, and in the sixth inning, he delivered a solo home run — his 12th of the season and the 50th of his career. As he rounded the bases, De La Cruz patted his chest, looked to the sky, and formed a heart with his hands, a quiet but powerful moment of remembrance for his sister.
The Reds ultimately lost the game 7-3 to the Cubs, but De La Cruz’s performance was the emotional centerpiece of the day. Teammates and coaches offered their full support, with manager David Bell emphasizing that the team stood by De La Cruz’s decision to play and would continue to support him however needed. “We just told him to take whatever time he needs — we’re here for him,” Bell said.
De La Cruz did not speak to the media after the game, and the team chose not to disclose additional details about his sister’s passing out of respect for the family’s privacy. It remains uncertain whether he will participate in the Reds’ upcoming home series against the Milwaukee Brewers, which begins Monday.
This moment adds a deeply human layer to De La Cruz’s breakout season. Known for his electrifying speed, power, and on-field energy, the young star’s resilience is now also part of his story. While the Reds face challenges on the field, it’s clear the entire organization is rallying around their shortstop during this difficult time.
