CINCINNATI. The Cincinnati Reds could be close to getting back one of their main offensive figures. Dominican shortstop Elly de la Cruz took an important step in his recovery process by completing base-running sessions and continuing to advance toward a possible Minor League rehabilitation assignment.
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De la Cruz, who has remained on the 10-day injured list since June 1st due to a right hamstring strain, performed speed work under the supervision of the team’s medical staff and showed encouraging signs in his recovery.
“I am getting closer,” the star shortstop expressed as he prepared to begin his exercises at the Great American Ball Park.
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The routine included runs from home plate to first base, as well as paths between the bases. Subsequently, he participated in defensive drills and took batting practice alongside the rest of his teammates.
Cincinnati manager Terry Francona indicated that if the player continues to respond favorably over the next few days, he could begin a rehab assignment this weekend with a minor league affiliate.
“Everything points to things continuing to go well because he feels very good physically. If he continues like this, we will send him to play over the weekend,” noted Francona.
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The organization is still working on the logistical details of that assignment because all of the club’s affiliates will be playing on the road. The most likely option would be Triple-A Louisville, which will have games in Gwinnett over the weekend.
Since suffering the injury while running the bases in a game against the Atlanta Braves on May 31st, De la Cruz has expressed his desire to return to the big league team as soon as possible. However, the Reds have opted for a cautious process to avoid any setbacks.
“We have talked to him a lot because we want him to understand that we are listening to him. We are desperate to have him back, but we must also do the right thing,” stated Francona.
The Dominican’s absence has been notable for Cincinnati. Before Monday’s game against the Mets, the Reds had a 3-9 record since De la Cruz went on the injured list and had lost 12 of their last 16 games.
In the current season, the 24-year-old player has a .280 batting average, with 12 home runs, 37 RBIs, 10 stolen bases, and an .855 OPS in 58 games played.
A recently performed MRI revealed that the injury has healed by approximately 90%, which allowed for an increase in the intensity of his workouts and brought his highly anticipated return to the Major Leagues even closer.
