Elly De La Cruz Finds His Niche As A Reliever

Elly De La Cruz emerged as a reliable MLB reliever for the Reds

In 2023, Elly De La Cruz emerged as a reliable reliever for the Cincinnati Reds. Despite an uninspiring start to the season, De La Cruz found success in his new role, solidifying his place on the Reds' pitching staff.

De La Cruz's remarkable turnaround

A disappointing start

After struggling as a starter early in the season, De La Cruz was moved to the bullpen in late May. The transition proved to be a catalyst for his success, as he quickly adjusted to his new role.

Finding his groove

In his new role, De La Cruz showcased his exceptional fastball and effective slider. He consistently threw strikes and induced weak contact, helping the Reds secure crucial outs and preserve leads.

Impressive statistics

De La Cruz's performance as a reliever was nothing short of impressive. In 45 appearances out of the bullpen, he notched a 3.24 ERA, 1.05 WHIP, and 62 strikeouts in 52.2 innings pitched.

De La Cruz's impact on the Reds

A valuable asset

De La Cruz's contributions to the Reds' bullpen cannot be overstated. His ability to eat innings and provide quality relief allowed the Reds to rest their overworked starters and give them a chance to succeed.

Building for the future

At just 24 years old, De La Cruz is still developing as a pitcher. His success as a reliever bodes well for his future with the Reds. He has the potential to grow into a dominant force in the bullpen for years to come.

Conclusion

Elly De La Cruz's transition to the bullpen has been a resounding success. He has proven to be a valuable asset to the Reds, providing stability and depth to their pitching staff. As he continues to grow and develop, De La Cruz has the potential to become one of the most reliable relievers in the MLB.