BREAKING: Terry Francona Sends Disturbing News On Elly De La Cruz’s future stardom with the Reds
Could Elly De La Cruz win the National League MVP in 2025? It’s possible. By now, the entire baseball world recognizes the All-Star’s extraordinary talent—boasting elite power, speed, defensive range, and arm strength. The Cincinnati Reds shortstop has all the tools to be a top-tier player for years to come.
In an interview with FOX19, new Reds manager Terry Francona was asked whether De La Cruz could reach an MVP level. Francona seemed almost surprised by the question, responding, “There is no ceiling for him.”
After leading the majors in stolen bases last season and finishing ninth in fWAR, De La Cruz is on a path to stardom in 2025. However, with elite competition from players like Shohei Ohtani, Mookie Betts, and Francisco Lindor, he’ll have a tough challenge ahead.
Terry Francona perfectly encapsulates Elly De La Cruz’s future stardom with the Reds
Winning the 2025 NL MVP will be no easy feat, but the Reds might be due for another winner. Interestingly, the team’s last two MVPs were exactly 15 years apart—Barry Larkin in 1995 and Joey Votto in 2010. With 2025 now here, it could be the perfect time for Elly De La Cruz to leave his mark on the sport.
Even if he doesn’t claim the award, Reds fans can still expect another outstanding season from their star shortstop. In the same interview, De La Cruz was asked about his statistical goals for the year. “Like I said, there is no number, I just want to play every day,” he responded. “If something comes up with that, I’m going to be grateful. I’m just looking to play every day, help the team win, and make the playoffs.”
The Graduation of Elly
On MVPs, Cooperstown, humility and graduating from Cincinnati star to MLB superstar, here's our spring training feature on Elly De La Cruz.
(Full length story: https://t.co/FipxcnJHZH) pic.twitter.com/MrKBX7tvG2
— Joe Danneman (@FOX19Joe) February 24, 2025
This measured response contrasts sharply with his bold 2024 prediction of stealing 80 bases. Regardless, De La Cruz is in a strong position for a breakout 2025 season. With Matt McLain returning from injury, he could have much-needed lineup protection, potentially boosting his on-base percentage—one more reason why he could be a serious NL MVP contender.