Reds' Elly De La Cruz hits ball 20 feet into ground, turns it into double

Cincinnati Reds star showcases speed and hustle to beat out an unlikely extra-base hit.

Apr. 7, 2026 at 12:36pm

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A cubist, fragmented painting depicting a baseball player running the bases, the ball breaking apart into sharp, overlapping geometric shapes, capturing the explosive energy and multi-angled perspective of the play.Elly De La Cruz's hustle play showcases the raw athleticism and determination that make him one of baseball's most exciting young stars.Cincinnati Today

In a game against the Miami Marlins, Cincinnati Reds outfielder Elly De La Cruz hit a grounder that bounced only about 20 feet in front of home plate, but his blazing speed allowed him to turn it into a double. De La Cruz then scored on the next play, helping the Reds secure a 2-0 victory in a game that could prove crucial in the standings race later in the season.

Why it matters

De La Cruz's impressive display of athleticism and hustle on the play highlights his status as one of the most exciting young talents in Major League Baseball. The Reds are hoping his combination of power, speed, and determination will help lead them to the playoffs this season.

The details

In the bottom of the 4th inning, with the game scoreless, De La Cruz hit a grounder that bounced only about 20 feet in front of home plate. Most hitters would have been satisfied with a single, but De La Cruz raced down the line and beat out the throw to second base, turning it into a double. He then came around to score on a single by teammate Sal Stewart, giving the Reds a 1-0 lead they would not relinquish.

  • The play occurred in the bottom of the 4th inning on April 6, 2026.

The players

Elly De La Cruz

A rising star outfielder for the Cincinnati Reds, known for his combination of power, speed, and athleticism.

Sal Stewart

A Reds teammate of De La Cruz who drove him in with a single following De La Cruz's unlikely double.

Miami Marlins

The opposing team that the Reds were playing against in this game.

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What they’re saying

“Elly hit a ball that bounced 20 feet in front of home plate and turned it into a double 🤯”

— Chatterbox Sports

What’s next

The Reds will look to build on this win as they continue their series against the Marlins, with the next game scheduled for April 8, 2026.

The takeaway

De La Cruz's hustle play demonstrates the importance of maximizing every opportunity, no matter how unlikely it may seem. His combination of elite physical tools and relentless effort make him one of the most exciting young players in baseball today.