As the 2024 MLB season unfolds, Elly De La Cruz continues to make a name for himself with his remarkable blend of speed and power. At just 22 years old, the Reds' shortstop has already cemented his place in the history books by becoming the latest player to join the exclusive 20-60 club.
Joining Elite Company
On August 21, De La Cruz reached a milestone few have achieved. His 60th stolen base of the season, recorded during a game in Toronto, placed him among the elite players who have managed to hit at least 20 home runs and steal 60 bases in a single season. This elite group includes legends like Rickey Henderson, Joe Morgan, and Ronald Acuña Jr.
Henderson, renowned for his unparalleled speed, accomplished the 20-60 feat multiple times throughout his illustrious career. Joe Morgan, who redefined the second baseman position in the 1970s with his exceptional power-speed combination, also graces this prestigious list. The most recent member before De La Cruz, Ronald Acuña Jr., achieved this milestone in 2023.
A Milestone in the Making
With 21 home runs and 60 stolen bases as of August 21, De La Cruz leads the majors in stolen bases, showcasing the same kind of dynamism that characterized Henderson and Morgan’s careers. The achievement is all the more impressive considering that De La Cruz had not successfully stolen a base since August 8 before his 60th swipe. This dry spell ended emphatically in Toronto, reaffirming his capability to change the game every time he steps on the field.
Entering the 20-60 club is no small feat, achieved in only eight seasons in MLB history, five of which were accomplished by Hall of Famers. It’s an accolade that speaks volumes about a player’s multifaceted talent and their ability to impact every aspect of the game.
The Historical Context
The last time the storied 80-steal mark was reached was in 1988, a year dominated by the likes of Rickey Henderson and Vince Coleman. While the modern game has seen a decline in stolen base attempts, De La Cruz’s success on the basepaths ignites a sense of nostalgia for an era when base stealing was an art form cherished by fans and players alike.
Moreover, the 20-60 club has produced three MVPs to date—Joe Morgan (1976), Rickey Henderson (1990), and Ronald Acuña Jr. (2023). These players, each in their era, redefined what it means to be a complete player, one who contributes in every dimension of the game. De La Cruz, with his youthful exuberance and remarkable versatility, is poised to follow in their footsteps, shaping the future of the sport with every game he plays.
Looking Ahead
For De La Cruz, the 2024 season isn't just a breakthrough; it's a testament to his relentless work ethic and innate talent. As the season progresses, fans and analysts alike will keenly watch how he continues to develop and what further records he might shatter. It’s a journey that promises to add many more chapters to the storied history of Major League Baseball, and Elly De La Cruz is just getting started.
In an age where specialized players often dominate headlines, De La Cruz’s blend of old-school hustle and modern-day athleticism provides a refreshing narrative. The Reds’ shortstop isn’t just playing baseball; he’s bringing a storied past into a vibrant present, offering a glimpse of a future as promising as his current achievements suggest.