David Bell isn’t placing too much significance on the Cincinnati Reds’ spring training lineup selections, except for Elly De La Cruz’s position. Charlie Goldsmith of the Cincinnati Enquirer reports that De La Cruz has consistently been placed in the No. 2 spot during spring training. De La Cruz had a strong start, hitting .315 with an .887 OPS in his first 30 games, but his performance declined to .191 with a .627 OPS over the final 68 games.
Bell emphasized De La Cruz’s talent and speed, expressing a preference for him to bat near the top of the order, although he won’t enforce it rigidly. He acknowledged De La Cruz as the player he’s contemplated the most. Aside from De La Cruz, Bell suggested not reading too much into the lineup, indicating he hasn’t given it extensive consideration yet. He hinted that today’s lineup is likely to resemble what it could be during the regular season.
Elly De La Cruz In Line to Bat Second?
Bell emphasized that De La Cruz’s placement in the lineup has been his primary focus. During spring training, the young shortstop has frequently occupied the second spot. Last season, De La Cruz primarily batted in the upper half of the Reds’ batting order. However, his performance inconsistencies led to him moving down the lineup in September. As a switch-hitter, De La Cruz struggled particularly against left-handed pitchers last season, posting a .495 OPS and a 40.2 percent strikeout rate. It wouldn’t be unexpected if he finds himself lower in the lineup when facing left-handers.
The Reds’ Regular Shortstop
Alongside the possibility of batting second, De La Cruz is anticipated to serve as the Reds’ primary shortstop in the upcoming 2023 season. Bell indicated, “Elly will play a lot of short, and Matt [McLain] will play a lot of second.”
He emphasized the need to allow other positions to unfold naturally. During his rookie season, De La Cruz demonstrated versatility by playing both third base and shortstop. At just 22 years old, he’s rapidly establishing himself as possessing exceptional range, lateral quickness, and arm strength. There’s a consensus that if De La Cruz can elevate his offensive performance, he has the potential to become a standout player.
What National League Managers Say About Elly
Mark Sheldon from MLB.com recently inquired with several NL managers about a rising star in the league. Craig Counsell, a division rival, shared his thoughts on the player.
Counsell commented, “His performance in the initial month was quite impressive; that indicates considerable talent. Could he improve further? If so, then we’re talking about a highly skilled individual. If I were with the Reds, I’d gladly accept his first-month performance on a daily basis.”
He also noted, “It seems like a typical situation for a young player where the league continuously adapts. Adaptation is key, and he’ll undoubtedly grasp that. He’s experienced how the league adjusts to him for the first time, which underscores the challenge of playing in the majors, even for immensely talented individuals. The league’s adjustments persist, and pitchers will exploit any weaknesses they perceive. It’s a constant process of adjustment.”
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