The Boston Red Sox are kicking off their 2026 season with a bang, facing off against a potential MVP contender right out of the gate. After splitting their first two games with the Cincinnati Reds, the stage is set for an exciting rubber match at Great American Ball Park.
All eyes are on Elly De La Cruz, the Reds' dynamic shortstop. While he's had a few strikeouts in these initial games, he's also shown his prowess with a couple of hits, two walks, and a home run. It's clear he's ready to make a statement this season.
Shohei Ohtani, the two-way superstar, has dominated the National League MVP race, securing the award two years running since his move to the Los Angeles Dodgers. But MLB Network's Brian Kenny believes De La Cruz might just have what it takes to challenge Ohtani's reign.
Kenny points out that De La Cruz's combination of speed and skill could lead to an impressive season, possibly even an eight-win campaign. While his numbers need a boost, his base-running and defensive skills at shortstop make him a formidable contender.
Last year, De La Cruz faced challenges, including a partially torn left quad that affected his performance post-All-Star break. Despite this, he still managed a respectable .264/.336/.440 slash line with 22 home runs and 4.3 fWAR. Now, with a clean bill of health, he's poised to reach his superstar potential.
In 2024, De La Cruz showcased his talents with 67 stolen bases and 14 outs above average at shortstop, highlighting his all-around game. Meanwhile, Ohtani remains the favorite for the NL MVP, but De La Cruz is in the conversation alongside other top talents like Francisco Lindor, Juan Soto, Ronald Acuna Jr., and Fernando Tatis Jr.
As Connelly Early and the Red Sox prepare to face the Reds, they'll need to strategize carefully to contain De La Cruz's explosive abilities. Sunday's game promises to be a thrilling showdown, with fans eagerly watching to see if De La Cruz can indeed rise to MVP-level play this season.