Elly De La Cruz Joins the Elite 20-60 Club in Historic Season
Elly De La Cruz has etched his name into the annals of Major League Baseball history by achieving a remarkable milestone. The 22-year-old Reds shortstop not only recorded his 60th stolen base of the season but also became a member of the exclusive 20-60 club, an honor that places him alongside some of the game’s legends.
During a recent game in Toronto, De La Cruz successfully stole his 60th base, a feat that hadn't occurred since August 8th. This milestone underscores his persistence and determination on the basepaths. Having already hit 21 home runs this season, De La Cruz's blend of power and speed has placed him in rarefied air, joining the likes of Rickey Henderson, Joe Morgan, and Ronald Acuña Jr., who have also accomplished the 20-60 feat.
The 20-60 club is an almost mythical fraternity within the sport. Only eight seasons in MLB history feature a player reaching this milestone, and five of those instances were achieved by Hall of Famers. This context accentuates the rarity and significance of De La Cruz's achievements. Rickey Henderson, celebrated for his unparalleled prowess in stealing bases, accomplished the 20-60 milestone multiple times throughout his illustrious career. Joe Morgan, another member of this elite group, revolutionized the second baseman position with his unique combination of power and speed during the 1970s. More recently, Ronald Acuña Jr. joined the club, showcasing his MVP-caliber talent in the 2023 season.
De La Cruz’s contributions to the Reds have been instrumental, as he currently leads the majors in stolen bases, a testament to his aggressiveness and strategic acumen on the field. Achieving such a milestone at the age of 22 speaks to his prodigious talent and potential for future accomplishments. For the Reds, which have a storied history filled with legendary players, De La Cruz’s emergence is a source of immense pride and anticipation for what lies ahead.
The last time the baseball world witnessed a player reaching the 80-steal mark was in 1988, with Rickey Henderson and Vince Coleman setting the standard for base-stealing excellence. While De La Cruz’s 60th steal might not yet rival those astronomical numbers, it’s a notable step in an era where stolen bases are increasingly rare.
As of August 21, the numbers place De La Cruz in the conversation for one of the most dynamic players in the game today. His ability to affect the game in multiple ways—whether by stealing bases, hitting home runs, or playing solid defense at shortstop—makes him a pivotal figure for the Reds and a player to watch in the coming seasons.
Moreover, the historical significance of the 20-60 club cannot be overstated. Joining Rickey Henderson (1990), Joe Morgan (1976), and Ronald Acuña Jr. (2023), who are all MVPs, highlights De La Cruz's potential trajectory in the sport. It also brings a sense of nostalgia and reverence for the game's rich history, connecting past legends with the burgeoning stars of today.
In a league where specialization often limits versatility, De La Cruz's achievement serves as a reminder of the multifaceted nature of baseball talent. His ability to blend speed and power is a throwback to an earlier era, while also representing the future, where dynamic playmakers continue to redefine the game’s parameters.
As the 2024 season progresses, all eyes will be on De La Cruz to see how far he can push these numbers and what additional milestones he might achieve. For now, his membership in the elite 20-60 club cements his place in baseball history and heralds an exciting career trajectory that fans and analysts will eagerly follow.