If Elly De La Cruz leaves the Cincinnati Reds in free agency, it would create a significant hole at shortstop, a position with high expectations in both offensive and defensive value. De La Cruz’s combination of speed, power, and defensive range makes him one of the most exciting young players in baseball. Replacing him would require targeting players who can replicate his dynamic skill set—whether through a trade or signing free agents who possess similar tools. The Reds would need to balance the future of their rebuilding efforts with the immediate need for production at shortstop. Here are three potential replacements for De La Cruz if he departs:
### 1. **Jordan Lawlar (SS, Arizona Diamondbacks)**
Jordan Lawlar is one of the top shortstop prospects in baseball, and his potential to become a star at the major league level makes him a prime candidate for the Reds to target. Lawlar, who is currently with the Arizona Diamondbacks, boasts a well-rounded skill set that could closely mirror De La Cruz’s impact on the field.
**Offensive Profile:**
Lawlar is a switch-hitter with a balanced approach at the plate, capable of producing both power and average. His bat speed is among the best in his class, and he has shown the ability to consistently make hard contact. While not as explosive a power threat as De La Cruz, Lawlar has the potential to hit 20-25 home runs per season with a solid batting average. His plate discipline has also improved as he’s progressed through the minors, which could help him avoid strikeout issues like De La Cruz.
**Defensive Profile:**
Lawlar is an above-average defensive shortstop, with exceptional range, a strong arm, and quick footwork. Like De La Cruz, he has the athleticism to cover a lot of ground, and his arm strength gives him the ability to make difficult throws from deep in the hole. While De La Cruz’s speed might give him an edge in terms of range, Lawlar is still considered one of the top defensive shortstops in the minors.
**Why He’s a Fit:**
Lawlar’s upside as a future star and his skillset make him a natural replacement for De La Cruz. He would provide the Reds with a similar combination of power, speed, and defense. Since Lawlar is not yet established at the MLB level, it could take a trade to acquire him, and the Reds would likely need to give up a significant package of young talent or major league assets to make the deal happen.
### 2. **Bobby Witt Jr. (SS, Kansas City Royals)**
Bobby Witt Jr. is one of the brightest young stars in Major League Baseball and a player who could provide a similar type of impact as Elly De La Cruz. Witt has already proven himself at the major league level, and his combination of power, speed, and defense could make him an ideal candidate to replace De La Cruz in Cincinnati.
**Offensive Profile:**
Witt is an athletic and powerful hitter with the ability to hit for both average and power. He has the potential to be a 30-30 player (30 home runs and 30 stolen bases), which would immediately replace the type of production that De La Cruz provides for the Reds. His ability to impact the game with both his bat and his legs is one of the main reasons he’s been a breakout player for the Royals. Like De La Cruz, Witt is capable of taking over games with his bat and providing a major spark at the top of the lineup.
**Defensive Profile:**
Witt has been solid defensively at shortstop, though some believe he could eventually move to third base or another infield position due to his athleticism and arm strength. However, at shortstop, Witt provides a similar level of range and athleticism as De La Cruz, with a strong arm and good footwork. While De La Cruz might have a slight edge defensively due to his quickness, Witt’s defense at short is still elite, making him a valuable asset up the middle.
**Why He’s a Fit:**
Acquiring Witt would be a challenge, as he is the face of the Kansas City Royals’ franchise. However, should the Royals decide to pivot and rebuild, Witt could be made available for the right offer. His combination of offensive and defensive value would allow the Reds to seamlessly replace De La Cruz while adding a star player to the lineup. A trade for Witt would likely require giving up a significant return, possibly including young major league players or top prospects, but he would represent a player capable of making an immediate impact and becoming the face of the franchise.
### 3. **Oswald Peraza (SS, New York Yankees)**
If the Reds are looking for a more cost-effective and realistic option, Oswald Peraza could be an ideal shortstop replacement. Peraza is a young, talented shortstop currently with the New York Yankees who has been highly regarded for his defensive ability and his offensive potential.
**Offensive Profile:**
Peraza has shown glimpses of offensive upside but is still developing his consistency at the plate. While his power isn’t as prodigious as De La Cruz’s, Peraza possesses a solid approach with good bat-to-ball skills. He has shown an ability to hit for average and has the potential for double-digit home runs, but his speed on the basepaths is a key tool—he’s capable of stealing 20+ bases annually. With some refinement in his swing and approach, Peraza could develop into a solid contributor offensively, though likely not with the same high-powered output that De La Cruz offers.
**Defensive Profile:**
Peraza is widely regarded as a strong defensive shortstop, with excellent range, quick hands, and a strong arm. His ability to make difficult plays on the move is a major strength, and he has the defensive aptitude to stick at shortstop long-term. While not as flashy as De La Cruz, Peraza’s defense is considered a plus tool, and his range allows him to make plays that many shortstops can’t.
**Why He’s a Fit:**
Peraza might not be the same high-ceiling, star player as De La Cruz, but he is a capable, well-rounded shortstop who could fill the gap at a more affordable cost. Since Peraza is currently blocked by the Yankees’ big league roster, he could be available for trade, potentially at a lower price compared to more established stars like Witt. He could offer the Reds a steady, reliable presence at shortstop while they continue to develop other young talent.
### Conclusion
Replacing Elly De La Cruz would be a tough task for the Reds, as he is one of the most exciting young players in baseball. However, options like Jordan Lawlar, Bobby Witt Jr., and Oswald Peraza could provide similar levels of impact and help the Reds maintain their competitive window. Whether through trade or free agency, the Reds will need to be strategic in replacing De La Cruz, ensuring they add a player who can match his combination of power, speed, and defense.