This Reds infielder has remarkably outplayed Elly De La Cruz since the All-Star break

Everyone loves Elly De La Cruz. He’s an electric factory and quite easily the best player on this young Cincinnati Reds’ roster. And while he’s still been solid post All-Star break, what if I told you Santiago Espinal has been better than him since the Midsummer Classic?

The preseason acquisition of Espinal flew under the radar as an unexpected move considering the infield depth the Reds had entering 2024 with the likes of De La Cruz, Matt McLain, Jeimer Candelario, Spencer Steer, Jonathan India, Noelvi Marte, and Christian Encarnacion-Strand. 

But the injury bug is undefeated, striking CES and McLain on top of a PED-suspension for Marte and suddenly, trading for Espinal became a crucial pickup. Adding a former All-Star for a little known minor leaguer turned into a fantastic value-play, as Espinal has even out-performed the most notable star on this Reds’ roster of late.

Santiago Espinal has outplayed Reds' star Elly De La Cruz

Before anyone freaks out, let’s not act like De La Cruz has played poorly of late. De La Cruz just stole his 60th base of the season last week, and although the strikeouts are a concern (he’s leading the league), the Reds shortstop is still hitting .263 with 22 bombs. 

In 30 games since the break, De La Cruz is hitting .283 with five homers; very solid numbers, especially considering mediocre play the last two weeks. De La Cruz is giving himself a legitimate shot to steal 80 bases, a milestone that would create some excitement for Reds fans down the stretch in a bleak season.

Espinal, however, has been a revelation over the last month. Entering Saturday's game against the Pittsburgh Pirates, in 17 contests since the break, Espinal is hitting a whopping .425 with a pair of home runs. The slick-fielding 29-year-old has carried his hot July (1.184 OPS) into August. 

While Espinal's better-than-De La Cruz streak won’t continue forever, it’s been fun to watch. Look for the infielder to be part of the Reds offseason and challenge for playing time once again in 2025.

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