CINCINNATI — In a move that’s left fans across baseball stunned, Cincinnati Reds superstar Elly De La Cruz has officially declined his invitation to the 2025 Home Run Derby — a decision that not only caught national headlines but also sparked speculation that something far bigger is in the works.
Just months ago, the idea of De La Cruz lighting up the Derby under the national spotlight seemed like a foregone conclusion. His jaw-dropping power, electric speed, and magnetism at the plate made him a fan favorite and one of the most marketable young stars in Major League Baseball. But as the invitations rolled out and fans began crafting their dream Derby lineup, De La Cruz dropped a quiet bombshell: he’s out.
And it wasn’t because of injury, fatigue, or lack of interest.
According to those close to the team, Elly’s decision wasn’t made lightly — it was strategic. Insiders report that the 22-year-old rising star is laser-focused on the second half of the season, and believes that skipping the Derby will allow him to maximize recovery, sharpen timing, and conserve energy for a run that could not only elevate the Reds but cement his place in MVP discussions.
“He wants October,” one source said. “Not July trophies. Not TV moments. He’s chasing legacy.”
That statement alone has sent a ripple through Reds Nation. With the team hovering around playoff contention, many believe De La Cruz is preparing to unleash a monster second half — one that could flip the National League standings and put his name front and center in the MVP race.
He’s already been a force. In just the first half of the season, Elly has tallied towering home runs, clutch hits, and breathtaking stolen bases. But his camp says he’s “not even close to the gear he’s about to hit.”
His teammates, coaches, and even opponents have taken notice. Veteran voices around the league have called him “the most exciting player in baseball right now,” and now, fans are beginning to wonder if passing on the Derby is the clearest sign yet that Elly isn’t chasing moments — he’s chasing greatness.
A Bold Move… That Could Pay Off Big
By declining the Derby, De La Cruz is doing what few young stars are willing to do: skip the spotlight in service of a bigger mission. The risk? Missing a chance to dominate the All-Star festivities. The reward? Fueling a historic second-half MVP push while leading the Reds to what could be their first deep playoff run in over a decade.
Whether fans agree with his decision or not, one thing is now certain:
Elly De La Cruz isn’t just swinging for fences anymore. He’s swinging for October.
