Time Is Now: Cincinnati Reds Should Sign Elly De La Cruz to a Long-Term, $750 Million Deal
The Cincinnati Reds have an opportunity before them that could redefine the franchise for decades to come. That opportunity is to lock up Elly De La Cruz, their electric young star, with a long-term contract that could potentially reshape the landscape of baseball. A $750 million deal for De La Cruz may sound audacious, but it’s a move that makes sense, both in terms of his talent and the Reds’ future trajectory. The time is now for the Reds to make this commitment—here’s why.
Elly De La Cruz: A Phenomenal Talent
Elly De La Cruz has quickly become one of the most exciting and dynamic players in Major League Baseball. Since his debut, he has showcased a rare combination of power, speed, and athleticism that places him in the conversation of future superstars. At just 22 years old, De La Cruz is already turning heads with his abilities: his 6’5″ frame is deceptively agile, and his raw tools—particularly his elite speed and bat speed—are unrivaled. He has the potential to become a five-tool player, something few in baseball are capable of achieving.
In his short time in the majors, De La Cruz has demonstrated not only his physical gifts but also his ability to impact the game. His combination of power and speed (with the ability to steal bases and hit for power to all fields) gives him a versatility that many superstars lack. His upside is enormous, and as he continues to refine his game, there is little doubt that he could evolve into one of the faces of baseball.
The Economics of a $750 Million Deal
Signing De La Cruz to a record-breaking contract of $750 million would set a new precedent in the MLB. While the number may seem astronomical, it is not as outlandish as it might appear at first glance. Baseball has seen long-term contracts worth hundreds of millions of dollars already. For example, in 2023, Mookie Betts signed a 12-year, $365 million deal, and Juan Soto, as one of the league’s top young stars, could easily command a deal well into the $400-$500 million range when he hits free agency.
However, what sets De La Cruz apart is his immense upside and the potential for him to not just be a great player but an iconic one. If the Reds are serious about building a perennial contender, this is the type of player they need to invest in. The deal would also be a statement from the organization that they are willing to keep their most valuable asset in Cincinnati for the long haul, locking in De La Cruz’s prime years.
A $750 million contract for De La Cruz would likely span around 12 to 14 years, securing the player through his age-34 or age-36 seasons. By comparison, current contracts like Mike Trout’s $426 million deal or Bryce Harper’s $330 million contract are considered both lucrative and a reflection of the player’s future contributions to the team. De La Cruz’s upside could very well justify a contract worth more than Trout or Harper’s, especially if he maintains his level of performance and stays healthy.
The Reds’ Strategic Advantage
For the Reds, locking in De La Cruz long-term would have several benefits, not just on the field but off it as well. The team is in the midst of a rebuild and has a solid core of young talent, including names like Hunter Greene, Nick Lodolo, and Jonathan India. The addition of De La Cruz to this group would make the Reds an exciting, competitive team for the next decade. The presence of a star like De La Cruz would elevate the whole organization, attract top-tier free agents, and reinvigorate the fanbase.
From a financial standpoint, the Reds could afford such a deal. While the team is not known for its deep pockets, ownership could see a long-term commitment to a player like De La Cruz as an investment that pays dividends in both ticket sales and merchandise revenue. The Reds are already one of the more popular teams in the MLB, with a strong fan base in Ohio, and De La Cruz would only amplify that. The marketability of a player like De La Cruz, who possesses the kind of highlight-reel talent that draws attention, would bring national attention to the Reds and enhance their brand value.
Additionally, teams like the Los Angeles Dodgers, New York Yankees, and Chicago Cubs are constantly looking to acquire elite talent, and the Reds would be wise not to let a generational player like De La Cruz slip away. The opportunity to secure him now, before he hits free agency, allows the Reds to avoid a bidding war that could easily escalate into an untenable situation.
Setting the Stage for Future Success
In the ever-evolving landscape of MLB, teams that don’t act quickly on young talent risk losing out to larger market teams who are ready to swoop in and outbid smaller franchises. Signing De La Cruz to a record-breaking deal would not only ensure that the Reds maintain one of the brightest young stars in the game, but it would also send a powerful message: the Reds are committed to winning championships in the near future. A long-term deal is not just a financial investment; it’s a strategic move to ensure that the team’s future is bright.
Conclusion
Elly De La Cruz is a once-in-a-generation talent whose potential is limitless. For the Cincinnati Reds, locking him up with a long-term deal worth $750 million would be a bold but necessary step toward ensuring their place among MLB’s elite teams. The time is now for the Reds to make this commitment, to show their fanbase, and the baseball world, that they are serious about winning championships and building a legacy with one of the brightest stars the game has ever seen.
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