Reds' Elly De La Cruz Scores on Wild Marlins Error

Cincinnati's young star sparks ninth-inning comeback against Miami.

Apr. 8, 2026 at 1:28am

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An abstract, expressionist painting in neon colors depicting a blurred figure sprinting across a baseball field, capturing the raw energy and motion of Elly De La Cruz's game-tying play.Elly De La Cruz's game-tying sprint showcases the Reds' young star's electric speed and ability to change the course of a game.Today in Miami

In the top of the ninth inning of a close game between the Cincinnati Reds and Miami Marlins, Reds shortstop Elly De La Cruz scored the tying run on a wild pitch by Marlins reliever Anthony Bender. Despite the Reds' offensive struggles for most of the game, De La Cruz's speed allowed him to race home before the tag could be applied, keeping Cincinnati in the game.

Why it matters

De La Cruz's heads-up play highlighted his dynamic abilities as one of the rising young stars in Major League Baseball. The Reds are hoping his speed and talent can help propel them to the playoffs in a tight National League race, while the Marlins are trying to prove they can compete with low-budget rosters.

The details

With two outs in the ninth inning and the Reds trailing 1-0, De La Cruz drew a walk against Marlins ace Sandy Alcantara, who had dominated Cincinnati's lineup for most of the game. Marlins reliever Anthony Bender then spiked a pitch that got past catcher Agustin Ramirez, allowing the speedy De La Cruz to race home and tie the score before the tag could be applied.

  • The game was played on April 8, 2026.
  • De La Cruz's game-tying run came in the top of the ninth inning.

The players

Elly De La Cruz

The Cincinnati Reds' young star shortstop, known for his dynamic speed and power at the plate.

Anthony Bender

The Miami Marlins' relief pitcher who surrendered the wild pitch that allowed De La Cruz to score the tying run.

Sandy Alcantara

The Marlins' ace starting pitcher, who dominated the Reds' lineup for most of the game before being removed in the ninth inning.

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What they’re saying

“Elly De La Cruz showed off his speed and instincts in a big moment to keep us in the game. That's the kind of player he is - always ready to make something happen.”

— David Bell, Cincinnati Reds Manager

What’s next

The Reds and Marlins will continue their three-game series on Wednesday, with the winner looking to take control of the early-season National League playoff race.

The takeaway

Elly De La Cruz's game-tying sprint in the ninth inning highlighted his status as one of baseball's most exciting young talents, and demonstrated the Reds' ability to stay in games even when their offense struggles, thanks to their dynamic shortstop's speed and instincts.