Reds' Rising Star Teases Major Video Game Cover Appearance

A notable announcement from Cincinnati Reds' shortstop Elly De La Cruz has stirred excitement in the baseball community. On Monday, De La Cruz hinted through an Instagram post that he might grace the cover of a highly anticipated baseball video game. The revelation suggests that De La Cruz could be featured on the upcoming MLB The Show 25, scheduled for release in March. While Sony Interactive Entertainment, the publisher of the series, has yet to confirm the cover athlete, this potential feature marks a significant milestone for the young player and his team.

Should De La Cruz indeed appear on the cover, it would represent a historic moment for the Cincinnati Reds. Since the game's inception in 2006, no active Reds player has held this honor. Notably, former Cincinnati native Ken Griffey Jr. appeared on the cover in 2017, but only after retiring from professional play. Additionally, special editions have previously celebrated legendary figures like Jackie Robinson and Derek Jeter, further highlighting the prestige associated with this recognition.

The rapid rise of De La Cruz, who turned 23 in 2024, has been nothing short of spectacular. Last year, he made a significant impact by hitting 25 home runs and recording 67 stolen bases. His stellar performance earned him a place on the All-Star team for the first time and secured an eighth-place finish in National League MVP voting. This achievement underscores the growing influence of young talent in baseball and sets a positive example for aspiring athletes. It also reflects the importance of perseverance and dedication in achieving one's goals.