Introduction

The Cincinnati Reds are gearing up for a promising 2026 season, bolstered by the determination of their star shortstop, Elly De La Cruz. Following a grueling yet successful third campaign, De La Cruz spent his offseason focusing on strength and resilience, aiming to improve his performance and lead the Reds deeper into the postseason. With the team having reached the playoffs for the first time since 2020, there is palpable excitement surrounding the upcoming season.

De La Cruz’s Offseason Transformation

Elly De La Cruz recently revealed to FOX 19's Jeremy Rauch that he has gained 12 pounds during the offseason. This weight gain is part of a strategic plan to enhance his strength and performance on the field. "I want to be stronger for every day in MLB," De La Cruz stated, emphasizing the importance of physical preparation in a demanding league.

The growing intensity of competition in Major League Baseball (MLB) means players are constantly seeking ways to improve their skills, and De La Cruz is no exception. His commitment to bulking up not only showcases his dedication but also highlights his ambition to become a more formidable player as the Reds aim for playoff success.

2025 Season Recap

The 2025 season was a pivotal year for De La Cruz and the Reds. Despite grappling with a quad injury that affected his performance in the second half of the season, he finished with 22 home runs, 86 RBIs, and 37 stolen bases, along with a respectable slash line of .264/.336/.440. His contributions played a crucial role in the Reds' overall success, as the team concluded the regular season with an 83-79 record.

Although the Reds' playoff journey was brief, ending in a two-game sweep by the eventual champions, the Los Angeles Dodgers, the experience left a lasting impact on De La Cruz. "Now, I know how it feels. We've got a chance (to win big)," he shared reflecting on their postseason experience. This acknowledgment of their potential demonstrates De La Cruz's growth and understanding of what it takes to compete at the highest level.

Motivation for 2026

Heading into the new season, De La Cruz's mindset is laser-focused. The brief playoffs last season fueled his fire to not only replicate but exceed his past achievements. His awareness of the high stakes involved in postseason play positions him as a leader on the team, inspiring his teammates to adopt a similar mentality.

The Reds showed resilience and ambition last season, yet there remains a collective desire within the organization to push further. If De La Cruz's commitment to strength and his competitive spirit resonate with his teammates, the Reds could very well find themselves deep in postseason contention this year. The organization has been eyeing a return to the playoffs, and De La Cruz's offseason preparation may be the key to unlocking that potential.

Team Dynamics and Future Outlook

Team chemistry and motivation are often as crucial as individual talent in sports. With De La Cruz leading the charge, the Reds are fostering an environment that emphasizes teamwork and shared goals. The broader determination within the roster suggests that players are not just working on their individual skills, but also focusing on how they can collectively elevate their performance.

Looking ahead, the challenges of a full MLB season await, but De La Cruz's offseason preparation and rejuvenated energy could serve as a cornerstone for the Reds’ success. Should he maintain his health and motivate his peers to give their best, the Reds may well become a formidable contender in the National League.

Conclusion

The anticipation for the 2026 season is on the rise as Elly De La Cruz returns with heightened strength and a fierce passion for victory. His recent commitments indicate that he is ready to take his game—and the Cincinnati Reds—to another level. With the postseason now within their reach, the Reds must harness this energy and determination to make significant strides in the upcoming season. Fans are hopeful that this could be the year the Reds make a deep playoff run, with De La Cruz leading the way as one of the key faces of the franchise.