Reds' De La Cruz leads team to series sweep over Rangers

Rookie sensation drives in winning run in 8th inning after scoring earlier on his speed

Apr. 5, 2026 at 11:14pm

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Elly De La Cruz, the young Cincinnati Reds star, led his team to a 2-1 victory over the Texas Rangers on Sunday, capping off a three-game series sweep. De La Cruz singled home the winning run in the eighth inning after earlier scoring in the fourth inning using his impressive speed.

Why it matters

De La Cruz has been a breakout player for the Reds this season, showcasing his five-tool talent and helping propel the team to an early lead in the NL Central division. This series sweep over the Rangers demonstrates the Reds' ability to win close games against quality opponents, an important skill as they aim to make the playoffs for the first time since 2013.

The details

With the game tied 1-1 in the eighth inning, De La Cruz came through with a clutch single to drive in the go-ahead run and give the Reds the victory. Earlier in the game, De La Cruz used his elite speed to score the Reds' first run after reaching base on an infield single.

  • The game was played on Sunday, April 5, 2026.
  • De La Cruz scored the Reds' first run in the fourth inning.
  • De La Cruz drove in the winning run in the eighth inning.

The players

Elly De La Cruz

A 22-year-old rookie sensation for the Cincinnati Reds, known for his five-tool talent and impressive speed.

Cincinnati Reds

A Major League Baseball team based in Cincinnati, Ohio, currently leading the NL Central division.

Texas Rangers

A Major League Baseball team based in Arlington, Texas, who were swept in this three-game series against the Reds.

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What they’re saying

“Elly just has a way of making things happen. He's a special talent and we're lucky to have him leading this team.”

— David Bell, Reds Manager

What’s next

The Reds will look to continue their strong start to the season as they return home to face the division rival St. Louis Cardinals in a four-game series starting on Tuesday.

The takeaway

De La Cruz's heroics in this series sweep over the Rangers showcase why he is considered one of the most exciting young players in baseball. The Reds' early-season success has them positioned well to end their playoff drought, with De La Cruz leading the charge.