15-07-2025
'Not now': Why Cincinnati Reds' Elly De La Cruz declined Home Run Derby invitation again
Someday Elly De La Cruz wants to participate in the All-Star Home Run Derby.
'The time is going to come,' he said. 'But not now.'
For the third time in as many seasons in the big leagues, the Reds young star declined an invitation to participate in the Derby.
Elly De La Cruz, who leads the Reds with 18 home runs, again declined to participate in the Home Run Derby during All-Star Game festivities. De La Cruz finished with 25 home runs last season.
The grueling nature of the contest, which some past participants suggested had a lingering fatigue effect coming out of the All-Star week, was one factor, he said, as well as the desire to keep his focus on helping the Reds win.
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This time around, the event comes just weeks after the loss of his sister following a long illness. And if he isn't selected to the National League All-Star team, it gives him an opportunity to be home with family for a few days.
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A player is not required to be selected to an All-Star team to be eligible to participate in the Home Run Derby.
De La Cruz, who finished third in All-Star fan voting for NL shortstops, reached the halfway point in the season this week hitting .277 with 18 home runs, 55 RBIs and an .862 OPS.
He has played in all 81 games.
This article originally appeared on Cincinnati Enquirer: Why Cincinnati Reds' Elly De La Cruz declined Home Run Derby invitation
