CHICAGO (AP) — Cincinnati Reds standout Elly De La Cruz played through grief on Sunday after learning about the passing of his sister, Genelis.
Despite the difficult news, De La Cruz hit a two-run home run and scored twice during the Reds’ 7-3 defeat to the Chicago Cubs. Reds manager Terry Francona shared that the 23-year-old shortstop was determined to take the field for the final game of the weekend series, and the team fully supported his decision.
“He really values being there for his team,” Francona said. “Carlos Santana was similar back in Cleveland, and for someone so young, it’s a quality worth respecting.”
According to Z101 Digital in the Dominican Republic, Genelis passed away Saturday following ongoing health issues.
De La Cruz chose not to speak with reporters, and the team respected his wishes by withholding further details.
“It puts things in perspective,” Francona noted. “We’re so focused on playing and winning, but moments like this remind us what truly matters. Everyone kept an eye on him today and tried to support him however they could.”
In the game, De La Cruz singled in the first inning and flew out in the fourth. He launched his 12th home run of the season in the sixth and later walked and scored on a sacrifice fly by Tyler Stephenson in the ninth.
The milestone 50th home run of his career was a powerful shot down the right field line, traveling an estimated 423 feet with a 117.4 mph exit velocity.
As he approached home plate, De La Cruz tapped his chest, pointed skyward, clapped, and formed a heart with his hands in tribute.
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