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Cincinnati Reds star Elly de La Cruz gave an emotional home run against the Chicago Cubs on Sunday and paid tribute to his sister, who learned he died the day before the game.
De La Cruz hit two home runs and crossed the plate twice in the Reds' 7-3 loss to the Cubs.
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Cincinnati Reds shortstop Elly de la Cruz, #44, got welcomed in solitude after two home runs against the Chicago Cubs in the sixth inning at Wrigley Field in Chicago on June 1, 2025. (David Banks-Imagn image)
Reds manager Terry Francona said that despite dealing with the death of his sister Genelis, the shortstop wanted to play.
"He is proud of the pride he can get," Francona said. "A person like that, Carlos Santana of Cleveland is very similar, and it's an admirable feature for a young child."
Francona added that such an era can be a good reminder of what “really matters.”
"We care so much about playing the game and winning, but we're rushing to remind you of something that really matters," Francona said. "So, I think everyone is spinning with him today and just want to take care of him."
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Elly de la Cruz of Cincinnati Reds, #44, played two home runs in the sixth inning of the baseball game against the Chicago Cubs on Sunday, June 1, 2025. (AP Photo/Matt Marton)
De La Cruz's home run stood out from the top of sixth place from Cubs pitcher Jameson Taillon. As he crossed the plate, he pointed to the sky and made a heart with his hands.
After the game, he refused to talk to the media, while the Reds provided more details about her death with the will of the players.
Z101 Digital of the Dominican Republic reported that Genelis died on Saturday after a long battle of health.
De La Cruz hit .258 with 60 games in the Reds this season. In that span, he had 12 home runs and 42 RBIs.
Elly de la Cruz of Cincinnati Reds, #44, took two home runs in the sixth inning of the Chicago Cubs in his solo investment during a baseball game against the Chicago Cubs on Sunday, June 1, 2025, and was bathed by fake money in his solo investment. (AP Photo/Matt Marton)
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Cincinnati fell to 29-31, losing the Cubs.
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