Scouting Report: Michael De La Cruz
Chicago Cubs | C
Overall
Summary
Elly De La Cruz, 24-year-old Cincinnati Reds shortstop, is having an MVP-caliber 2026 season. He's leading all MLB shortstops in WAR (1.9), with elite offensive metrics (.265/.337/.510 slash line, 10 HRs, 8 SBs), career-high hard-hit rate (52.1%) and barrel rate (14.5%). Defensively, he ranks +5 OAA at shortstop (9th overall, 3rd among SS). Expected metrics (.283 xBA, .512 xSLG, .373 xwOBA) rank in 85th percentile or higher. De La Cruz is developing into a 5-tool superstar under coaching from Freddie Benavides and Ke'Bryan Hayes, prioritizing results over metrics. Contract discussions ongoing with agent Scott Boras.
Strengths
- MVP-caliber performance in 2026
- Leads all MLB shortstops in WAR (1.9)
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