Elly De La Cruz and Other Reds Players Making an Early Awards Case

13 days agoUS
Elly De La Cruz and Other Reds Players Making an Early Awards CaseSource: si.com
As the 2026 MLB season approaches June, several Cincinnati Reds players are emerging as potential award candidates. This article examines Elly De La Cruz, Chase Burns, and Sal Stewart and their chances for MVP, Cy Young, and Rookie of the Year awards, respectively.

Key Insights

Elly De La Cruz (MVP):: Showing consistency with a .279 batting average, .855 OPS, 12 home runs, and 37 RBIs. Leading shortstops in extra-base hits, total bases, and runs.

Chase Burns (Cy Young):: Boasting a 7-1 record with a 1.96 ERA and 72 strikeouts. Ranked high in ERA, strikeouts, innings pitched, wins, and bWAR among NL pitchers.

Sal Stewart (Rookie of the Year):: Leading NL rookies in home runs (12), RBIs (36), slugging (.473), OPS (.826), walks (31), and extra-base hits (21).

Why This Matters: These players' performances could significantly impact the Reds' playoff aspirations and bring individual accolades to Cincinnati.

In-Depth Analysis

Elly De La Cruz: National League MVP Candidate

Elly De La Cruz is having a consistent season, batting .279 with an .855 OPS, 12 home runs, and 37 RBIs. His performance against left-handed pitching has improved, making him a more versatile hitter. De La Cruz leads all shortstops in extra-base hits (26), total bases (113), and runs scored (38).

Chase Burns: Cy Young Award Hopeful

Chase Burns has been dominant on the mound, with a 7-1 record and a 1.96 ERA. He has recorded 72 strikeouts and maintained a high ranking in key pitching statistics. Burns has consistently pitched deep into games, providing stability to the Reds' rotation.

Sal Stewart: Rookie of the Year Frontrunner

Sal Stewart has had an outstanding rookie season, leading NL rookies in multiple offensive categories. His advanced knowledge of the strike zone and ability to hit to all fields have allowed him to minimize slumps and remain productive.

FAQs

Who are the main competitors for Elly De La Cruz in the MVP race?

Shohei Ohtani (Dodgers), Kyle Schwarber (Phillies), Matt Olson (Braves), James Wood (Nationals), and Jordan Walker (Cardinals).

Who are the top contenders for the NL Cy Young Award besides Chase Burns?

Cristopher Sánchez (Phillies), Paul Skenes (Pirates), Jacob Misiorowski (Brewers), Chris Sale (Braves), Bryce Elder (Braves), and Shohei Ohtani (Dodgers).

Who are Sal Stewart's main rivals for the NL Rookie of the Year Award?

JJ Wetherholt (Cardinals), Nolan McLean (Mets), and Konnor Griffin (Pirates).

Key Takeaways

Elly De La Cruz is having a consistent and impactful season, making him a strong MVP candidate.

Chase Burns's dominant pitching performance positions him as a serious Cy Young contender.

Sal Stewart's impressive rookie campaign makes him a frontrunner for the NL Rookie of the Year Award.

Discussion

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