Terry Francona Reveals 'Big Factor' in Elly De La Cruz' Defensive Improvements

The Reds manager believes there's a big factor in the progression of Elly De La Cruz's defense at shortstop.

Cincinnati Reds shortstop Elly de la Cruz (44) fields ground ball off the bat of Colorado Rockies third baseman Kyle Karros (12) for an out in the second inning of the MLB National League game between the Cincinnati Reds and the Colorado Rockies. | Sam Greene/The Enquirer / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

Don't look now, but the Cincinnati Reds are looking like one of the best teams in MLB. Sure, it's only April, but that doesn't mean the fanbase can't get excited about the team's play so far this season.

On Tuesday night, fans were buzzing after the team's series-opening 7-2 win against the Colorado Rockies at Great American Ball Park. It was a game filled with the usual that has kept this team in its winning ways. Long balls blasted by Elly De La Cruz and Sal Stewart continued to prove they are the offense. However, it was De La Cruz's glove that really got people talking.

Flashing The Leather

Elly's got your back!@ellylacocoa18 pic.twitter.com/BU6cAQnxkK

— Cincinnati Reds (@Reds) April 28, 2026

In the top of the second, De La Cruz made a play that would have Peter Gammons, Harold Reynolds, and John Kruk salivating to call the web gem on an episode of Baseball Tonight. Sorry, I'm old and miss baseball talk on ESPN.

Reds fans have long known that De La Cruz's bat was going to be his biggest strength in the big leagues. Now, it appears his glove is taking shape as well.

Big Factor

Cincinnati Reds manager Terry Francona (77) watches from the dugout before a Reds Hall of Fame induction ceremony before the game between the Cincinnati Reds and the Detroit Tigers at Great American Ball Park in downtown Cincinnati on Saturday, April 25, 2026. | Sam Greene/The Enquirer / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

On Wednesday, Charlie Goldsmith shared what Terry Francona had to say about De La Cruz's defensive improvements this season. It shouldn't be a surprise for fans to know that Ke'Bryan Hayes has been a major factor.

“Guys see him and see how he goes about it. It’s not luck. He’s blessed. His hands and feet are spectacular. Also, you watch him every day and he does it right every day. Guys have taken cue from him," said Francona.

Francona couldn't hide how impressed he was by De La Cruz's play in the top of the second. The Reds manager said the play was one of the most physically impressive plays one could ever see. That's pretty high praise for the shortstop.

A Star In Progress

Cincinnati Reds third baseman Ke'bryan Hayes (3) smiles to shortstop Elly de la Cruz (44) after Cruz’s athletic play for an out in the second inning of the MLB National League game between the Cincinnati Reds and the Colorado Rockies at Great American Ball Park in downtown Cincinnati on Tuesday, April 28, 2026. The Reds led 4-1 after three innings. | Sam Greene/The Enquirer / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

De La Cruz is on the cusp of legendary status within the city of Cincinnati. So, it doesn't hurt to have a Gold Glove third baseman in Hayes.

In the last two seasons, De La Cruz has led the league in errors. In 29 games this season, the Reds' shortstop has only committed three errors. It appears the defense is rapidly catching up to the young shortstop's must-see offense.

The Reds will have a chance to win their fifth straight series when they take the field on Thursday against the Rockies. Another highlight night by De La Cruz may keep this team hot as they roll into May.