Elly De La Cruz Hits Home Run Vs. Cubs For His Sister A Day After Her Death

Cincinnati Reds shortstop Elly De La Cruz’s sister, Genelis De La Cruz, passed away after a prolonged battle with unspecified health problems, according to media reports in the Dominican Republic.

De La Cruz could have not played after hearing the news of his sister’s death, but he not only played against the Chicago Cubs on Sunday, but he also honored her memory both on his gear and with his play on the field.

De La Cruz wrote “RIP” on his cleats and hat to honor his sister’s memory. Before his first at-bat, he took a timeout to compose himself for what would be the first game he played without his sister living to watch. He then singled off Cubs starter Jameson Taillon.

Later in the game, De La Cruz hit a bomb as he hit his 12th home run of the season. As he rounded the bases, he pointed to the sky and then made a heart gesture with his two hands as he crossed home plate.

The 23-year-old star shortstop did not speak to the media before the game, but manager Terry Francona told reporters that De La Cruz insisted on playing.

“We just told him we will support whatever he needs to do,” Francona said. “He wants to play today, and then we’ll go from there.”

In Major League Baseball’s Collective Bargaining Agreement, it stipulates that players are allowed to be placed on the bereavement list for a minimum of three days and a maximum period of a week. It’s unclear if De La Cruz will be assigned that designation.

De La Cruz entered Sunday hitting .252/ .324/ .439 (104 OPS+) with 11 home runs, 40 runs batted in and 17 stolen bases on 22 attempts. Last year, he finished eighth in National League Most Valuable Player Award voting after recording 25 home runs and 67 stolen bases.

The Reds lost Sunday’s game 7-3 to the Cubs, but he honored his sister with his on-field play.