June 2, 2025 — Cincinnati, OH
Yesterday, Cincinnati Reds shortstop Elly De La Cruz shared a deeply emotional message with Reds fans following the heartbreaking news of his sister’s passing.
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De La Cruz, who learned about his sister Genelis’s death just hours before playing Sunday’s game, chose to honor her memory by stepping up to the plate and delivering a powerful performance. Despite the pain he carried, he hit a two-run home run that resonated far beyond the scoreboard.
Unable to speak immediately after the game, De La Cruz took time to gather his thoughts before reaching out to Reds fans through an emotional message:
“She was my light, my guiding force through everything. Losing her has left a hole in my heart that words cannot fill. But I felt her strength with me on the field, and I wanted to share this moment with her — with all of you.”
“Thank you to my teammates, coaches, and the incredible Reds fans for your support during this incredibly difficult time. Your love and encouragement mean the world to me.”
The heartfelt message touched Reds Nation deeply, showing the human side of a rising star who balances personal tragedy with the pressures of professional baseball.
Manager Terry Francona expressed his admiration for De La Cruz’s resilience: “Elly’s courage is remarkable. He chose to play through his pain, honoring his sister and inspiring everyone around him.”
As De La Cruz continues to navigate his grief, Reds fans stand firmly behind him, inspired by his strength and vulnerability both on and off the field.
