Elly De La Cruz
SS - Cincinnati Reds
2026 Outlook
Roster %
Eligibility
Availability
The Reds plan to keep Elly De La Cruz at shortstop next season, according to Charlie Goldsmith of Fox 19 Now Cincinnati. Despite leading the majors in errors in each of his two full seasons, the 23-year-old will stay put for 2026. After posting a plus-14 Outs Above Average mark in 2024, De La Cruz dropped to minus-3 in 2025, fueling speculation of a possible position change. However, the Reds are not considering a move to the outfield and instead intend to give him more rest days and occasional starts at designated hitter to keep him fresh.
Fantasy Impact
This news locks De La Cruz into shortstop eligibility for another season, preserving his value in fantasy lineups. While his defensive inconsistencies remain, Cincinnati’s plan to manage his workload could help his offensive consistency after a sluggish second half in 2025. He remains one of the most dynamic fantasy options at the position, capable of elite speed and power when locked in.
Reds GM Nick Krall said they are sticking with Elly De La Cruz at shortstop next season.
Fantasy Impact
De La Cruz has dealt with fielding issues at times, but he will still remain at shortstop. It appears they could have another logjam in the infield heading into next season.
Elly De La Cruz went 1-for-4 in the loss to the Brewers, with a home run, one RBI, and one run scored.
Fantasy Impact
With the regular season now finished, De La Cruz's stats show a .264 batting average, 22 home runs, and 86 RBI across 162 games.
Elly De La Cruz went 1-for-4 with one stolen base in a victory over the Brewers.
Fantasy Impact
After today’s win, De La Cruz boasts a .264 batting average with 164 hits, 21 home runs, and 37 stolen bases across 160 games this season.
Elly De La Cruz went 3-for-3 with a home run, two RBI, one run scored, and one walk in the Reds’ 4-2 loss to the Pirates on Tuesday.
Fantasy Impact
De La Cruz lifted his totals to 162 hits, 85 RBI, and 21 home runs across 608 at-bats. Batting .266 with a .340 OBP and adding 36 steals, he’s been one of Cincinnati’s most impactful all-around contributors.
