Blog

Could Elly De La Cruz win the National League MVP in 2025? Possibly. 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 become a generational player.

In an interview with FOX19, new Reds manager Terry Francona was asked whether De La Cruz could reach MVP-caliber performance. 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 9th in fWAR, De La Cruz is on a clear path to stardom in 2025. However, with elite competition from players like Shohei Ohtani, Mookie Betts, and Francisco Lindor, he’ll have to prove he belongs among the game’s best.

Terry Francona perfectly encapsulates Elly De La Cruz’s future stardom with the Reds

Securing the 2025 NL MVP won’t be easy, but the Reds might be due for another winner. Interestingly, the team’s last two MVPs came 15 years apart—Barry Larkin in 1995 and Joey Votto in 2010. Now, with 2025 upon us, the timing feels right for De La Cruz to leave his mark on the game.

https://x.com/FOX19Joe/status/1893889590697586985?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw%7Ctwcamp%5Etweetembed%7Ctwterm%5E1893889590697586985%7Ctwgr%5E3521aa691bf35d5532096875ec9836626ab66a11%7Ctwcon%5Es1_c10&ref_url=https%3A%2F%2Fblogredmachine.com%2Fterry-francona-perfectly-encapsulates-elly-de-la-cruz-future-stardom-with-reds

Even if De La Cruz doesn’t claim the NL MVP in 2025, Reds fans can still anticipate another spectacular season. In the same interview, he was asked about his statistical goals for the year. “Like I said, there is no number, I just want to play every day,” the Reds shortstop responded. “If something comes from that, I’ll be grateful. I’m just focused on playing daily, helping the team win, and making the playoffs.”

This approach contrasts with his bold 2024 prediction of stealing 80 bases. Regardless, the dynamic shortstop is poised for a big year. With Matt McLain returning from injury, De La Cruz could benefit from much-needed lineup protection, potentially boosting his on-base percentage. That added advantage gives him yet another reason to make a strong push for the NL MVP in 2025.