Watch: Reds Manager Terry Francona Comments on Where Elly De La Cruz Will Hit in the Lineup

The question has been answered!

Mar 4, 2025; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Cincinnati Reds shortstop Elly De La Cruz reacts after stealing second base against the Los Angeles Dodgers during a spring training game at Camelback Ranch-Glendale. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images | Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images

It has been a hot topic all offseason on where Reds' superstar Elly De La Cruz should hit in the batting order.

On Thursday, we got the answer.

Terry Francona joined Thom Brennaman from Chatterbox Sports and said De La Cruz will hit third in the lineup.

"He's going to hit third," Francona said. "He wants to hit third. I like that. I like the idea of McLain hitting in front of him. I've really liked the idea of Hays hitting behind him. We signed Austin Hays to make good. It feels like he has a lot to prove...That helps too. You've got to protect Elly."

De La Cruz had 76 RBI in the 2024 season and should have a lot more chances to drive runners in from the three-hole in 2025.

Watch the clip below:

Terry Francona says that Elly De La Cruz will be batting third for the #Reds pic.twitter.com/f6NaAay2cu

— Chatterbox Sports (@CBoxSports) March 13, 2025

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